Amid growing public unease, senior U.S. national security officials addressed concerns regarding the unidentified drones observed across the Northeastern United States. In a call with reporters, including Fox News Digital, officials from the FBI, FAA, NSC, DHS, and DOD attempted to alleviate anxieties, with one official characterizing the widespread concern as a potential "overreaction."

While the investigation continues, officials remained cautious about disclosing details about the drones' origins. Initially sighted over northern New Jersey in mid-November, these mysterious aircraft have been witnessed by numerous residents in recent weeks. An FBI official revealed that they've received approximately 5,000 tips since the initial sighting, with less than 100 deemed worthy of deeper investigation.

Image from video footage appearing to show multiple drones over Randolph, N.J., on December 4th. (Credit: MartyA45_ /TMX via AP, File)

Despite the increased reports of drone activity, the FBI official stated that there's no indication of widespread, coordinated unmanned aerial vehicle operations. Both FBI and DHS representatives suggested that the actual extent of drone activity might be less than perceived, with the DHS official emphasizing that while tips are taken seriously, not all hold equal credibility.

A DOD official confirmed that there's currently no intelligence suggesting foreign involvement or malicious intent behind the drone flights. However, they acknowledged the ongoing challenge in identifying the operators and origins of the drones, citing limitations on domestic surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

Photo of apparent drone activity in the New Jersey sky. (Credit: Paul Kanitra/Fox News @ Night)

Expressing shared frustration over the situation, the DOD official highlighted the restrictions on domestic intelligence gathering. An NSC official reiterated the lack of evidence pointing towards criminal activity, national security threats, public safety risks, or foreign actor involvement.

Map illustrating locations where unidentified drones have been reported in December 2024. (Credit: Fox News)

The NSC official emphasized the seriousness with which the matter is being handled, despite the absence of concrete evidence suggesting a specific threat.

Contribution by Fox News' Daniel Scully.