Biden Reassures Public Over East Coast Drone Sightings
President Joe Biden has sought to calm public concerns over a wave of mysterious drone sightings along the East Coast of the United States, calling the phenomenon “nothing nefarious.”
The sightings, reported in states like New Jersey and New York, have sparked public curiosity and conspiracy theories. While authorities have yet to provide definitive answers, they maintain there is no evidence of a national security threat or foreign involvement.
Drone Sightings Prompt Public Concern
Over the past few weeks, multiple sightings of unidentified flying objects—assumed to be drones—have been reported near air bases and public spaces. The phenomenon even led to temporary closures of Stewart International Airport in New York and Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.
Speaking on Wednesday, President Biden addressed the public’s concerns, saying, “We’re following this closely, but so far, no sense of danger.” He added, “There’s a lot of drones authorized up there. I think one started it, and now everyone wants to join in.”
What Authorities Know So Far
Government agencies, including the Pentagon and FBI, have been investigating the reports and recently briefed members of the House Intelligence Committee.
According to Biden and committee members:
- Many sightings appear to involve lawfully operated drones by hobbyists or law enforcement.
- Other reports have mistaken manned aircraft or even stars for drones.
- No evidence points to foreign powers or “nefarious” activities.
Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan echoed these findings, stating, “They haven’t found anything that would indicate foreign influence, foreign actors, or even little green men.”
Public Suspicion Persists
Despite assurances, many Americans remain skeptical. New Jersey resident Noel Thomas described seeing a rectangular object “the size of a school bus” with blinking lights. “It’s definitely something I’ve never seen,” he said.
Local police echoed public frustration, saying, “We’re just looking for some sound, reasonable answers so that people can go about their lives without hysteria.”
State governments, like New York’s, are stepping in by deploying advanced drone detection systems to address the public’s concerns and increase transparency.
Political and Expert Reactions
President-elect Donald Trump weighed in, suggesting the government knows more than it is disclosing. However, he dismissed the idea of a hostile foreign power being involved.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon has denied claims from a New Jersey lawmaker that the drones originate from an Iranian “mothership.” An FBI official noted there may have been “a slight overreaction” in addressing the sightings.
Moving Forward
While the mystery of the East Coast drone sightings persists, federal and state authorities are working to uncover the truth and provide reassurance. In the meantime, President Biden has emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions.
“We need to follow the evidence,” he said. “So far, there’s no reason for alarm.”
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