US Weighs Using ‘Mother of All Bombs’ in Potential Strikes on Iran: CNN

The Pentagon has developed military plans that could involve the use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB) bomb against Iran’s energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities, CNN reported on Thursday, citing US officials.

The plans could be implemented if US President Donald Trump orders a resumption of military operations against Iran, according to the report published on October 15.

The GBU-43/B, commonly known as the “Mother of All Bombs”, is among the largest non-nuclear conventional bombs in the US military arsenal. Its potential use in a conflict with Iran could mark a significant escalation in hostilities.

However, officials familiar with the military planning reportedly questioned whether deploying the weapon would effectively achieve Washington’s strategic objectives.

Reuters said it could not immediately independently verify CNN’s report.

What Is the ‘Mother of All Bombs’?

The GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb is a large conventional munition designed to produce an extensive blast effect. It is not a nuclear weapon.

The weapon became widely known after the US military used it in Afghanistan in April 2017 against a network of tunnels and caves used by the Islamic State militant group.

Its size and destructive capability have made it one of the most prominent weapons in discussions of large-scale conventional military operations.

Potential Escalation in US–Iran Tensions

Any decision to use such a weapon against Iran would carry significant military and geopolitical implications, particularly if energy infrastructure or nuclear-related sites were targeted.

Attacks on energy facilities could disrupt essential infrastructure and have wider economic consequences. Strikes on nuclear-related facilities could also raise concerns about regional security and the potential for further retaliation.

The reported plans do not establish that a decision to use the weapon has been made. They indicate, according to CNN, that the Pentagon has considered the option in the event of renewed US military action.

Questions also remain over the military effectiveness of such an operation and whether it would advance Washington’s stated strategic goals.

No Independent Confirmation of the Report

As of the publication of the original report, Reuters said it had not independently verified CNN’s account.

The reported planning should therefore be distinguished from a confirmed military order or an announcement that an attack is imminent.

Further official statements from Washington would be needed to clarify whether the reported option remains under consideration and under what circumstances it might be used.

Source: CNN, citing US officials; Reuters said it could not immediately independently verify the report.