U.S. Rep. Jefferson Van Drew claims drones over New Jersey are being launched from an Iranian ship, a claim the Pentagon denies. The origins of the drones remain unknown.

WASHINGTON, DC (1-minute read) — U.S. Representative Jefferson Van Drew, R-NJ, has stirred controversy with his claims that drones spotted over New Jersey and parts of New York are being launched by an Iranian “mothership” off the East Coast. Van Drew, citing unnamed “high-level” sources, has urged the Biden administration to impose flight restrictions and authorize the downing of any drones violating them.

However, the Pentagon swiftly dismissed these allegations. Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated there is no evidence of an Iranian vessel near U.S. shores, nor any connection between Iran and the drones. The Shahid Bagheri, an Iranian container ship retrofitted as a drone carrier, has been mentioned in speculation, though its current location is unknown.

Van Drew, a member of the House Aviation Subcommittee, sent a letter to President Biden, emphasizing urgency and national security concerns. Appearing on Fox News, he reiterated his belief that Iran is behind the drone activity, which has paused due to inclement weather in the region.

While the source of the drones remains a mystery, the situation has reignited debates over airspace security and the challenges of unidentified aerial systems.

Safety Tip: Always stay informed about airspace regulations and report unusual drone activity to local authorities to ensure safety and compliance.