Large drones have been spotted in New Jersey’s skies, sparking controversy over their origin. Rep. Jeff Van Drew claims they come from an Iranian “mothership,” but the Pentagon denies the allegations. Investigations by the FBI and DHS are ongoing.
Lawmaker’s Explosive Allegations
Since mid-November, residents of New Jersey have reported a growing number of large, mysterious drones flying in the night sky. During an interview with Fox News’ Harris Faulkner, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) alleged that these drones might originate from an Iranian “mothership” stationed off the East Coast. “Iran launched a mothership probably about a month ago that contains these drones,” Van Drew claimed, citing “qualified and reliable sources.”
We are not getting the full deal, and the military is on alert with this,” Van Drew added
Van Drew emphasized that the drones should be neutralized, stating, “Whether it’s some crazy hobbyist or Iran—and I think it very possibly could be—they should be shot down.” He declined to name his sources, citing confidentiality but insisted they were “responsible individuals.”
Pentagon Denies Allegations
The Pentagon has dismissed Van Drew’s claims. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said, “There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States, and there’s no so-called ‘mothership’ launching drones toward the United States.” Singh further stated that there is no evidence linking the drones to any foreign entity or adversary.
- No evidence of Iranian involvement
- No confirmed foreign adversary linked to drones
- Monitoring of the situation continues
Public Safety and Federal Involvement
Despite Pentagon assurances, state officials remain on high alert. Reports describe drones as large as SUVs flying in coordinated patterns over critical infrastructure and military sites such as the Picatinny Arsenal. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented flight restrictions over sensitive areas, including Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster.
New Jersey Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia criticized the federal response, saying, “To state there is no known or credible threat is incredibly misleading.”
FBI and DHS Investigations
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are actively investigating the incidents. The FBI has urged residents to report any drone activity, while DHS has acknowledged similar sightings occurring both nationally and internationally.
A DHS handout revealed that many drones appear to avoid detection by conventional means and can operate without their lights. Some sightings suggest the drones are up to six feet in diameter and travel in coordinated groups.
Community Reactions
Local leaders have expressed frustration with the federal response. Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali said, “The message conveyed was that there is no credible threat, yet their origin remains unidentified. This heightens my apprehension regarding the government’s approach.”
State Sen. Holly Schepisi described the DHS response as “abysmal,” calling for stronger investigations and drone restrictions. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) urged the Department of Defense to deploy resources to identify and address the drones, echoing concerns about public safety.
“To state there is no known or credible threat is incredibly misleading,” said Assemblywoman Fantasia
The Bigger Picture
As drone sightings increase, their purpose and origin remain unknown. Are they hobbyist devices, surveillance tools, or something more sinister? Federal agencies have yet to provide definitive answers, leaving New Jersey residents demanding transparency and action.
For now, the skies over New Jersey remain a source of mystery and concern as investigations unfold and the nation watches closely.
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