New Jersey lawmaker urges Pentagon to recognize drone 'invasion' as 'unfriendly'

For nearly a month, drones have been sighted in U.S. airspace in the northeast, with no clear explanation from the federal government.

One New Jersey lawmaker is urging the federal government to take immediate action and investigate the "very threatening situation," as the White House has only provided limited information.

"We must wake up!" Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., stated on "Your World" on Friday. "We have been inactive for a month, and this is why I am so frustrated with the Pentagon. We cannot simply say that nothing is happening and put our people in danger."

"We must determine the intent of the drones, which we cannot identify, and take action accordingly. We cannot allow the invasion of drones with an unknown purpose, and we must assume they are not friendly. If they turn out to be friendly, we can celebrate. However, in my opinion, this is not the case."

Despite the appearance of dozens of drones in the New Jersey night sky over three weeks ago, the public has yet to receive a clear explanation of the phenomenon.

Since Nov. 18, drones have been sighted every night from dusk to 11 p.m., with reports ranging from four to 180 sightings per night, according to New Jersey Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who shared a briefing given by law enforcement.

State and federal officials are being pressed for answers by residents in states such as New Jersey, Connecticut, and New York.

John Kirby, the White House National Security Communications Advisor, stated on Thursday that many of the reported drone sightings in New Jersey over the past few weeks are likely to be piloted aircraft.

"Kirby stated at the White House press briefing that there is currently no evidence to suggest that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat, or have a foreign connection. The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are conducting an investigation into these sightings and are collaborating with state and local law enforcement to utilize various detection methods to determine their source."

"Despite the use of advanced electronic detection technologies by federal authorities, as well as state and local law enforcement, there is no corroboration of any reported visual sightings. In fact, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are manned aircraft being operated legally. The United States Coast Guard is providing support to the state of New Jersey and has confirmed that there is no evidence of foreign-based involvement from coastal vessels. Additionally, there are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted airspace."

Smith expressed his disbelief to Neil Cavuto of Planet Chronicle about Kirby's remarks.

"I am shocked by Adm. Kirby's suggestion that 'Nothing to see here' regarding yesterday's statements. There is much to be concerned about, Admiral. DOD must prioritize national security and has not done so."

Some of the sightings could be regular aircrafts, but the New Jersey representative believes that "one of the nation-state terrorists, such as Russia, Iran, or China," is likely responsible for the drones.

This report was contributed to by Planet Chronicle' Michael Ruiz, Julia Bonavita, Danielle Wallace, Louis Casiano, David Spunt, and Morgan Phillips.