Security measures are being heightened in preparation for the upcoming 98th Academy Awards ceremony, as tensions escalate in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The FBI has issued warnings about the potential use of killer drones by Iran as a retaliatory tactic against the United States.
While there have been no specific threats reported, sources have indicated that Iran may be covertly planning an aerial attack on high-profile events such as the Oscars. Traditional security measures focused on ground threats may not be sufficient to detect or prevent a drone attack from above.
The FBI stated, “We recently acquired unverified information that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United States homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event the U.S. conducted strikes against Iran.”
In response to these concerns, the Oscars telecast executive producers have confirmed the implementation of increased security protocols for the event. Close collaboration with law enforcement agencies such as the FBI and the LAPD is in place to ensure the safety and protection of all attendees.
The LAPD plans to deploy around 1,000 private security officers, uniformed officers, surveillance cameras, drones, bomb-sniffing dogs, and special units like the SWAT team in and around the Dolby Theatre where the ceremony will take place. A one-mile security perimeter will be established around the Hollywood and Highland intersection, with thorough security checks for all vehicles attempting to enter the area.
“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our Federal, State, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict,” the LAPD stated. “We share this information in real time, assess every credible lead, and adjust our posture as needed to ensure the safety of our City.”
The safety and security of all participants and spectators are of paramount importance, and a comprehensive security plan is in place to mitigate any potential threats during the prestigious event. The producing team is committed to ensuring a smooth and secure Oscars ceremony, with a focus on maintaining a welcoming and protected environment for all attendees.
