US considers using "Mother of All Bombs" on Iran
The short version
The United States military has drafted strike plans that could include the GBU‑43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb against Iran. The plan remains a potential option, not a confirmed action.
The United States military has reportedly developed strike plans that could include the GBU‑43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb, known as the "mother of all bombs," against Iran.3 The GBU‑43/B is the United States' largest non‑nuclear bomb.4 The U.S. military has drawn up options for strikes on Iran that include the potential use of one of the biggest non‑nuclear bombs in its arsenal.5
The U.S. dropped GBU‑57 bombs on underground nuclear facilities in Iran last year.7 U.S. intelligence said those 2025 strikes only set back Iranian nuclear operations by months.7 President Donald Trump said at a rally in Montana that he did not know who U.S. officials were negotiating with to end the Iran war.2
Trump’s comments came amid a strong majority of voters who believe he is falling short at home and abroad.6 A poll reported that many Trump voters feel betrayed by the war in Iran.1 The U.S. has not yet decided to use the MOAB; it remains a potential option in strike plans.5,3
The use of the MOAB would represent a significant escalation in U.S. military action against Iran.5,3
“They don’t have a navy. They don’t have an air force. Their army is decimated. Their leaders are gone.”
Why it matters
The GBU‑43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb, nicknamed the "mother of all bombs," is a large conventional bomb used by the U.S. Air Force.4,3
The U.S. has previously used large bombs, such as the GBU‑57, in strikes against Iran's underground nuclear facilities.7
The Iran war refers to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, including diplomatic and military tensions.2
Public opinion polls show that a majority of voters are critical of President Trump’s handling of the Iran war.6,1
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This account was written from the 7 reports listed below, filed by 5 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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