Intensive Security Measures in Place for Oscars Ceremony Amid Safety Concerns

The 98th Academy Awards are being held under unprecedented security due to fears of potential terrorist threats linked to the Iran conflict. More than 1,000 police officers, alongside SWAT teams, snipers on rooftops, bomb-sniffing dogs, and FBI operatives, have been deployed to form a comprehensive ‘ring of steel’ around the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. For the first time, anti-drone technology is being used, and airspace above the venue will be closed for the duration of the three-hour ceremony. An anti-biological warfare unit and radiation monitors have also been stationed on site. The heightened security is aimed at safeguarding stars including Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jessie Buckley, who is tipped to win Ireland’s first best actress Oscar. The elaborate precautions reflect fears of attacks by pro-Iranian sleeper cells, whether via drones, vehicles near the venue, or offshore platforms. In addition to the security measures, notable moments at the ceremony include potential performances by Barbra Streisand to honour Robert Redford, and strong Oscar nominations for films such as ‘Sinners’ and ‘One Battle After Another’. The Oscars ceremony will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX, with the red carpet commencing at 10.15pm.