The White House, FBI, and Homeland Security stated Thursday that there is no evidence linking recent drone sightings in New Jersey to national security or safety threats. A joint statement by the FBI and DHS revealed that many sightings were likely manned aircraft operating legally, with no drones confirmed in restricted airspace.
White House spokesperson John Kirby said authorities are investigating the reports alongside New Jersey law enforcement. Most sightings, he noted, involve lawful aircraft. However, Kirby emphasized the need for Congress to expand authorities’ ability to detect and counter drones that could threaten airports or infrastructure.
The Federal Aviation Administration began receiving reports of drone activity near Morris County, New Jersey, on Nov. 18. The Pentagon ruled out foreign involvement and chose not to engage the drones, deeming them non-threatening to military installations. Asked if a nationwide drone ban was being considered, Kirby said such a policy is not currently on the table.
Witnesses in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, reported seeing six craft with blinking red and green lights near Philadelphia International Airport. Middletown, New Jersey, Mayor Tony Perry stated more than 40 drones, described as “SUV-sized” and traveling at 60–70 mph, have been spotted over his town in recent days. He criticized the federal response, saying, “I don’t think the federal government has taken it seriously.”
Perry added that the Coast Guard is patrolling the coastline to investigate possible drone platforms, though Kirby confirmed no evidence of foreign involvement from vessels. New Jersey and New York senators, including Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, have demanded a briefing from federal agencies to address the sightings, citing “urgent concern” and pressing for immediate action.
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