U.S. Congressman Jeff Van Drew has claimed that Iran's "mother ship" is operating near the U.S. East Coast, launching drones and tracking U.S. Coast Guard ships. The claims have sparked widespread controversy, but officials have so far declined to comment.

At a press conference, a Pentagon spokesman denied the allegations, saying the military was closely monitoring the situation and had not yet confirmed the facts stated by Van Drew.

"We are taking all necessary measures to protect U.S. territorial waters and continue to monitor any suspicious activity in the region," — Pentagon press secretary.

Jeff Van Drew's statement has drawn criticism from experts. Many analysts point to the lack of evidence and emphasize that such statements may be part of political rhetoric amid tense relations between the United States and Iran. However, the congressman's statements draw attention to the growing tensions in the Persian Gulf and around American territorial waters.

Relations between the US and Iran have deteriorated in recent months due to sanctions and increasing Iranian drone activity in the Middle East. Iran previously demonstrated the capabilities of its maritime drones during exercises in the Strait of Hormuz. These drones are capable of performing reconnaissance missions and striking maritime targets, increasing their strategic importance.

Iran is developing “mothership” technology — modified vessels capable of carrying unmanned aerial vehicles that can operate over long distances — according to international observers. The technology has raised concerns in the West, including the United States, over its potential use in strategic areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and the eastern Mediterranean.

U.S. officials have repeatedly warned of a growing threat from Iranian drones. In October 2024, the Pentagon said it had intercepted an Iranian drone near a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf, further raising tensions between the countries.