The White House clarifies that many reported "drone" sightings in New Jersey are actually legally operated manned aircraft.

John Kirby, the White House National Security Communications Adviser, stated on Thursday that many of the reported drone sightings in New Jersey over the past few weeks are actually legal manned aircraft.

"Kirby stated at the daily 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 DHS and FBI are collaborating with state and local law enforcement to investigate these sightings using various detection methods to determine their source."

"According to Kirby, despite the use of advanced electronic detection technologies by federal authorities, as well as state and local law enforcement, no corroboration has been found for any reported visual sightings. In fact, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually 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."

According to Brian Harrell, a former DHS assistant secretary for infrastructure protection under the Trump administration, Kirby missed a crucial chance to establish trust with the public.

"Harrell stated that the government has a chance to regain the public's trust in the US, but they are failing to do so. Although extra powers are required, the current technology and radar capabilities allow for a better understanding of drone details. While I don't believe foreign countries are involved, it's clear that the government or contractors are testing their capabilities."

Kirby suggested that Congress should expand existing counterterrorism authorities to address the potential threat of unmanned aircraft.

"Law enforcement agencies are taking the threat of unmanned aircraft systems seriously, as evidenced by their continued support of New Jersey and investigation of reports, despite not discovering any malicious activity or intent at this time. However, the reported sightings in New Jersey have exposed a gap in authorities, prompting Kirby to urge Congress to pass legislation that will enhance existing counter drone authorities. This will enable authorities to better identify and mitigate potential threats to airports and other critical infrastructure, as well as provide state and local authorities with the necessary tools to respond to such threats."

On Thursday, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., criticized the inadequate information being released from the White House.

"Blumenthal stated that urgent intelligence analysis should be conducted and the drones should be taken out of the skies, especially if they are flying over airports or military bases. He emphasized that the Biden administration should act more aggressively against these drones and provide information on who owns them, who's flying them, and what they are. The lack of information is unacceptable, he added."

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stated that the reported drones do not seem to pose a threat to public safety. However, several state and municipal lawmakers have urged for stricter regulations on who can operate unmanned aerial vehicles. The FBI, along with other agencies, is currently investigating the matter and has requested residents to submit any relevant videos, photos, or information they may have about the drones.

The drones were observed flying over the Raritan River, which supplies the Round Valley Reservoir, New Jersey's largest water source, approximately 50 miles from New York City.

Near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, sightings were reported statewide, according to The Associated Press.

The aircraft have also recently been spotted in coastal areas.

Over the weekend in Ocean County, a Coast Guard lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park was closely followed by a dozen drones, according to U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J.

During a congressional hearing, FBI Assistant Director Robert Wheeler stated that the bureau does not know who is responsible for the drones seen over New Jersey in recent weeks, according to the Asbury Park Press. Smith reported that he was informed by officials at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst that they do not have permission from the Department of Defense to shoot down the unknown aircraft following their boats and retrieve them for analysis.

Smith disclosed to Planet Chronicle that he has written to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin requesting permission.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.