US Considers Hitting Iran with ‘Mother of All Bombs’ – CNN Report
The United States military has developed new strike plans that include the possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb — commonly known as the “Mother of All Bombs” — against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites, according to a CNN report published on Thursday.
The report, citing multiple US officials familiar with the matter, said the plans would apply if President Donald Trump orders a resumption of combat operations, either before or after the midterm elections.
What the Report Says
Using the MOAB, the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal, for the first time in the conflict with Iran would represent a significant escalation. Officials familiar with internal military planning discussions told CNN there are doubts about how effective the weapon would be in achieving strategic objectives or changing the course of the conflict.
One source said Trump had directed the military to prepare additional strike packages that include “a lot of energy infrastructure” and the potential use of a MOAB. Another source indicated that plans for striking certain Iranian nuclear sites, including a location referred to as Pickaxe Mountain, explicitly include the bomb.
The White House has said President Trump keeps all options on the table to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, while declining to comment on specific military plans. A Pentagon official stated that the military plans for a wide range of scenarios to execute presidential direction.
Questions Over Effectiveness
Military sources noted that the MOAB is designed for large-area surface effects rather than deep penetration. One official described it as more of an “information operation type weapon” useful for area clearance but not suited for destroying heavily fortified underground facilities.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential for civilian casualties given the size of the weapon.
Context
The report comes amid ongoing tensions and earlier pauses in full combat operations. Reuters said it could not independently verify the CNN account.
No decision to use the weapon has been announced.
Sources:
CNN report citing US officials, October 15, 2026; related coverage from Reuters and other international media.
