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The Pentagon has refuted claims made by Congressman Jeff Van Drew that mysterious drones spotted over New Jersey are linked to Iran. Van Drew suggested the drones might be launched from an Iranian "mothership" off the U.S. coast, posing a national security threat. However, the Pentagon, through Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, stated there is "no truth" to these claims, emphasizing there is no evidence of foreign involvement in the drone activity.
The sightings, which began in mid-November, have raised concerns among New Jersey residents and officials. The drones have been seen flying at night over central and northern New Jersey, including near military installations like Picatinny Arsenal. Despite the lack of identified threats, state officials, including Senator Jon Bramnick, are calling for a temporary ban on drones and a limited state of emergency until the situation is clarified.
The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are investigating the sightings, but have not confirmed any credible threats. The Federal Aviation Administration has imposed flight restrictions over certain areas in response to the activity. Van Drew, citing unnamed sources, continues to assert the possibility of foreign involvement, despite the Pentagon's denial.
ABC News reports that local officials remain unsatisfied with the federal response, calling it inadequate. Meanwhile, NY1 notes that the drones have been spotted in multiple locations, including over President-elect Donald Trump's golf course. The situation continues to develop as authorities work to identify the source and purpose of the drones.