US Weighs Use of Massive Bomb Against Iran in New Strategy

WHO:

CBS News Politics - President Trump is involved in the decision-making regarding military actions against Iran.

WHAT:

CBS News Politics - The White House and Pentagon have prepared plans to use a Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, commonly known as a "mother of all bombs," against military sites in Iran if ordered by President Trump.

Truthout - The US has only ever dropped a MOAB once before, which occurred in Afghanistan in 2017.

WHERE:

CBS News Politics - The potential military targets are located in Iran.

WHY:

CBS News Politics - The plans are part of a new strategy being considered by the US government regarding military engagement with Iran.

HOW:

CBS News Politics - The method involves the use of a Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, which is designed to create a large blast radius and is intended for use against fortified military positions.

(UPDATED October 16, 2026 02:05 UTC)

President Trump is currently involved in the decision-making process regarding military actions against Iran, with plans being prepared by the White House and Pentagon to potentially use a Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, commonly known as a "mother of all bombs," against military sites there. This type of bomb has only been used once before, during an operation in Afghanistan in 2017. The proposed strategy aims to enhance the U.S. government's military engagement with Iran, focusing on targets that are fortified and require significant firepower.