Official release or press statement from the Department of Homeland Security

Lawmakers Demand Answers on 'SUV-Sized' Drones Over New Jersey; White House Says No Threat Found

Dec 12, 2024, 09:27 PM

Mysterious drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey and neighboring Pennsylvania in recent weeks, sparking concern among residents and prompting calls for federal action. Multiple sightings of large drones, sometimes described as being the size of SUVs and avoiding detection by traditional methods, have been reported over sensitive areas including military installations. Residents have captured videos of the drones since mid-November, adding to the urgency of the situation. U.S. officials, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), issued a joint statement saying they have no evidence at this time that the drones pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus. They also noted that no drones have been detected in restricted airspace. White House National Security Advisor John Kirby addressed the issue, noting that many of the reported sightings appear to be manned aircraft operating lawfully. Some lawmakers, including Senators from New Jersey and New York, are demanding federal briefings on the drone sightings. Governor Phil Murphy and local officials, such as Mayor Dawn Fantasia, have also expressed concern. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick sent a letter calling for immediate answers and decisive action regarding the unexplained drone activity. While some speculate about foreign involvement, including claims of an Iranian 'mothership,' the Pentagon has denied these allegations.