Oscars 2026: FBI warns of possible drone attack; security heightened
What's the story
The 98th Academy Awards, set to take place at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre on March 16 (IST), are facing a potential security threat, reported ABC News. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning about a possible retaliatory drone attack from Iran against the US West Coast. In light of this alert, both organizers and law enforcement agencies have ramped up their security measures to ensure the safety of all attendees and participants.
Security response
LA County Sheriff's Department assures public of their safety
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has assured the public of its commitment to safety. In a statement to the LA Times, they said they are operating at an "elevated level of readiness and is maintaining increased vigilance." However, they did not comment on the FBI memo.
Safety assurance
'We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD'
Raj Kapoor, the executive producer of the 98th Oscars, addressed safety concerns during a press conference on Wednesday. "I feel like on this show, we have one of the best teams in the business in all aspects, and that comes down to our security team." "So, of course, every year we monitor what's going on in the world. We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it's a close collaboration."
Global conflict
Drone threat amid escalating tensions between Iran and US
The potential drone threat comes amid rising tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US. On February 28, the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran that reportedly killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has attacked American bases across West Asia and military targets in Israel. The conflict has led to airspace closures across the Gulf and the evacuation of foreign tourists from countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan.