Local law enforcement is investigating mysterious drones flying overhead, while NORAD and the U.S. military’s Northern Command have not been asked to identify them, according to officials within those agencies.
They have confirmed that these are not U.S. military drones, nor are they linked to any foreign adversary, particularly ruling out the presence of an Iranian mothership offshore.
Comments from the Pentagon came after New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew speculated about an Iranian mothership conducting reconnaissance. His claims drew criticism from Governor Phil Murphy, who emphasized that the Department of Defense and the FBI found no supporting evidence for this assertion.
Despite frustration surrounding the situation, officials reaffirm that addressing this issue is a top priority. A White House press briefing scheduled for 1:30 PM Eastern is expected to provide more answers.
During a recent briefing, Congressman Van Drew raised concerns about the origin of the drones, considering possible links to Iran. However, the Pentagon has denied any such connection.
He criticized the government’s response as weak and noted that these drones are not typical hobbyist creations but represent a level of sophistication unknown in U.S. civilian technology, implying they could be linked to foreign capabilities, particularly China or Iran.
Van Drew said of the government’s response, “They are lying to you.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said he also has no idea who is operating the drones, but criticized Van Drew’s assessment.
“I don’t know what he’s watching, maybe he should watch the news,” Murphy said. Murphy will be at the White House on Thursday for a 1:30 press briefing on the drone matter.
Van Drew said has credible individuals with high-security clearances reached out to him, suggesting the possibility of Iranian involvement, though not immediately off New Jersey’s coast.
“They are whistleblowers,” Van Drew said.
He raised questions about the drones’ origins, indicating they are not just floating but are landing somewhere, expressing concern that the public may not be receiving the full truth about these developments.
