US military planners have reportedly developed new strike options against Iran, including the possible use of the massive ‘Mother of All Bombs’ (MOAB). According to US media reports, the proposed targets include Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities. Any deployment of the weapon would mark a major escalation in the conflict.
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Sources familiar with internal military discussions told US media that President Donald Trump had ordered preparations for additional strike packages. These reportedly include attacks on energy infrastructure and the possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast, commonly known as MOAB. However, officials have not publicly confirmed that the administration has approved such an operation.
The reports suggest that Trump’s advisers have discussed several options regarding Iran in recent weeks. One source told CNN that the proposed timing could allow Washington to declare victory before withdrawing US forces from the region. Another source said military plans for striking Iranian nuclear facilities, including Pickaxe Mountain, reportedly included the bomb. Trump has repeatedly said his objective is to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Questions remain about whether MOAB could destroy deeply buried nuclear facilities. Although the GPS-guided weapon can devastate a large surface area, sources reportedly doubt its ability to penetrate deep underground structures protected by layers of granite. Its impact could therefore remain largely above ground, even if the blast causes extensive destruction nearby.
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Developed during the Iraq War era, MOAB detonates in the air before reaching the ground. Military officials previously described its potential psychological impact as one of its intended effects. Trump authorised its first combat use in Afghanistan in 2017 against an Islamic State position. Afghan officials said the strike killed 36 militants. The reported Iran plans remain under discussion, and their effectiveness and strategic consequences are uncertain.