The repeated appearance of mysterious drones in the skies over areas of the United States has sparked a wave of concern and speculation among citizens and officials.
Since mid-November, reports of these drones being spotted over vital sites and facilities have prompted authorities to open investigations into the matter.
What started as isolated reports has turned into a national security issue and a topic of intense political debate. While federal authorities try to reassure citizens about these drones and confirm that there are no security threats, calls for more transparency and explanations about the phenomenon's reality and implications are growing louder.
Senior U.S. government officials have issued a series of statements and clarifications to reassure the public about the recurring phenomenon.
John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesperson, confirmed that the Biden administration has not identified "anything unusual or any risks related to national security or public safety in the civilian airspace over New Jersey or other northeastern states.
He explained that the assessments of the sightings to date indicate that they include a mix of legitimate commercial drones, hobbyist drones, law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and even stars in the sky mistaken for drones.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas also addressed the issue, stating, "There is no doubt that people are seeing drones. Thousands of drones fly every day in the United States, including recreational and commercial drones."