Pentagon may use "mother of all bombs" on Iran, sources say

As of October 15, 2026, US military officials are considering using the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb (MOAB), known as the "mother of all bombs," against Iran if President Donald Trump orders renewed combat operations. The bomb weighs 21,600 pounds and is the largest non-nuclear weapon in the US arsenal. According to CNN, military planners are developing strike plans targeting Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites but remain uncertain about its effectiveness in achieving strategic objectives.

The conflict with Iran began in February 2026 when US-Israeli strikes initiated the war. Since then, diplomatic efforts have stalled, leaving both sides at an impasse. Trump faces low approval ratings ahead of November's midterm elections due to the ongoing conflict and associated economic issues like fuel price increases. Officials cite concerns over potential civilian casualties from deploying such a massive weapon.

The Pentagon plans for various operational scenarios but maintains that the MOAB is primarily effective in psychological warfare rather than deep penetration attacks, particularly against suspected underground nuclear sites. CBS News reported that Trump previously stated the US would not attack Iran before the midterm elections but has since prepared plans for its use if ordered by him or his Secretary of Defense.