Federal officials have dismissed allegations that unidentified drones observed in New Jersey are originating from an Iranian “mothership” stationed off the East Coast. This assertion was made by Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a Republican from New Jersey, during a Fox News appearance. He claimed to have information from “high sources” that linked these drones to an Iranian vessel operating in U.S. waters.
Rep. Van Drew stated that the purported mothership launched these drones, which he believes are being used inappropriately in American airspace, advocating for the drones to be shot down regardless of their origin—be it state-controlled or individual hobbyists.
However, Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh categorically refuted these claims, asserting, “There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States, and there’s no so-called mothership launching drones towards the United States.” Singh emphasized that there is no evidence connecting the drones to any foreign adversaries and affirmed that U.S. officials remain vigilant regarding the situation.
In response to the increase in nighttime drone activity, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden expressed urgency for New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to declare a state of emergency. He called for a ban on recreational drone use after dark, citing public safety concerns among residents. Golden also urged Congress to pass federal legislation that would empower local law enforcement to combat the rising challenges posed by drone activity.
This incident highlights the complexities of drone regulations and public safety in the face of evolving technology. As authorities evaluate these growing concerns, it is essential to balance safety and privacy while ensuring that misinformation does not exacerbate public fears. Despite the uncertainties, it illustrates an opportunity for improved policy-making and collaboration between state and federal officials to effectively address emerging challenges in airspace management.
In summary, while local concerns about unidentified drones in New Jersey are valid, federal authorities have clarified that these incidents do not appear to be tied to foreign threats, prompting a call for better regulation and a proactive response from the state government to safeguard local communities.