The United States military is considering the possible use of its most powerful non-nuclear bomb against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities if President Donald Trump orders a resumption of military operations, according to a CNN report.
The report, published on Thursday, October 15, cited US officials familiar with discussions surrounding potential military plans against Iran.
The weapon under consideration is the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), popularly known as the “mother of all bombs”. Its potential deployment would mark a major escalation in the conflict, given the scale of the weapon and the strategic importance of the proposed targets.
According to the report, US military planners have developed strike options that could include the bomb as part of a renewed campaign against Iranian targets. However, the plans remain conditional on Trump deciding to authorise further combat operations.
The possibility of using the weapon has reportedly raised questions among officials about whether it would deliver the intended military results. Sources familiar with the planning discussions expressed doubts about its effectiveness in achieving Washington’s broader strategic objectives.
The GBU-43/B is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US military’s arsenal. Its potential use against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites would signal a significant shift in the scale of possible US attacks.
However, the report did not indicate that Trump had made a final decision to resume combat operations or authorised the deployment of the weapon.
The reported planning comes as Washington continues to assess its military options regarding Iran, with the possibility of renewed strikes raising concerns about a further escalation of the conflict.
