RismadarVoice Reporters
October 15, 2026
The United States is reportedly examining the possibility of deploying its largest non-nuclear bomb against Iran as diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict between the two countries remain uncertain.
According to a report by CNN, American military planners have discussed the possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), commonly called the “Mother of All Bombs,” as part of potential renewed military operations.
The discussions reportedly include possible strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear-related facilities.
However, no decision to deploy the weapon has been publicly confirmed, and it remains unclear whether President Donald Trump would authorise such an operation.
The reported military planning comes amid continuing tensions following the outbreak of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran in February 2026.
Washington and Tehran have explored diplomatic options, but disagreements over military operations, sanctions and regional security have complicated efforts to reestablish dialogue. The United States and Israel have maintained that their military actions are intended to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Tehran has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapons programme.
Questions have also been raised about the suitability of the MOAB for certain targets, particularly deeply buried nuclear installations.
The weapon is designed primarily to produce a powerful blast across a wide area rather than penetrate heavily fortified underground structures.
A source familiar with the reported discussions questioned whether the bomb would be effective against facilities located deep beneath the ground.
Its potential use has also prompted concerns about the humanitarian consequences of large-scale strikes, particularly if operations were conducted near populated areas or essential infrastructure.
The reported discussions come as the Trump administration faces domestic political pressure over the economic consequences of the conflict, including higher energy costs, ahead of the November congressional elections.
The United States has also pursued economic restrictions against Iran while diplomatic contacts continue.
The MOAB was previously deployed by American forces in Afghanistan in April 2017 against an Islamic State tunnel complex.
That operation marked the first combat use of the weapon.
The latest reports, however, remain accounts of possible military planning rather than confirmation of an approved strike.
As diplomatic efforts continue, there has been no official announcement that the United States intends to deploy the MOAB against Iran.
