Trump Mulls Using 'Mother of All Bombs' on Iran Amid War Pressure
The Pentagon has developed plans for the GBU-43/B MOAB, capable of leveling nine city blocks, as the administration seeks an exit strategy from the six-month conflict.
President Donald Trump is reportedly considering the deployment of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, also known as the 'mother of all bombs,' against Iranian nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure. The move comes as pressure mounts on the administration to find a resolution to the six-month conflict.
The Pentagon has developed plans to use the 21,600-pound weapon, which has the capacity to devastate an area equivalent to nine city blocks, according to reports citing multiple U.S. officials. Military insiders, however, have expressed concerns that the bomb's deployment may not achieve Trump's objective of forcing Tehran's submission.
The potential use of the MOAB, along with strikes on energy infrastructure, is part of proposals being considered as the administration seeks a way for Trump to declare victory and withdraw forces without appearing to have conceded ground. These plans could be implemented before or after the November midterm elections, though Trump has publicly pledged not to initiate new attacks before voters head to the polls.
A Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB) weapon is prepared for testing at the Eglin Air Force Armament Center in March 2003
A Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB) bomb, is launched in November 2003 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida
Trump is facing mounting pressure to bring the six-month war to an end, but reportedly fears that withdrawing American forces without a decisive victory would make him appear defeated
