Federal officials have dismissed allegations that mysterious drones observed over New Jersey are originating from an Iranian “mothership.” U.S. Representative Jeff Van Drew, a Republican from New Jersey, made the claim during a Fox News appearance, suggesting that unidentified flying objects in the state’s airspace are being controlled by Iran, which he asserts has positioned a mothership off the U.S. East Coast. He cited “high sources” for this information and suggested that the unmanned aerial vehicles should be neutralized.
However, the U.S. Department of Defense quickly refuted Van Drew’s statements. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh stated, “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.” She further emphasized that there is no evidence linking the unidentified drones to any foreign adversary, assuring that U.S. officials will keep a watchful eye on the situation.
Amid rising concerns about nighttime drone activity, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden called on New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to declare a state of emergency and implement a ban on recreational drone use after dark. Golden noted that increased drone traffic during the night has alarmed residents, posing potential threats to public safety. He urged immediate action from the governor and support from the Air National Guard, while also advocating for Congress to pass legislation enabling local law enforcement to better tackle the drone-related issues.
In summary, while speculation about the origins of the mysterious drones has sparked significant concern, federal authorities are committed to investigating the situation further without any substantiated links to foreign threats. The call for enhanced protective measures at the state and local level highlights a proactive approach to addressing community safety and security in light of increasing drone activity.
This situation presents an opportunity for local governments and law enforcement agencies to work collaboratively in developing effective strategies to manage aerial surveillance and ensure public safety, fostering a sense of community trust and reassurance among residents.