US military plans could include ‘mother of all bombs’ in renewed Iran strikes, CNN reports

The US military has developed strike plans that could include using the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites if President Donald Trump orders renewed combat operations, CNN reported Thursday, citing US officials familiar with the planning.

Known as the “mother of all bombs,” the GBU-43/B is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal. Its potential use would represent an escalation in the conflict, but CNN’s sources questioned whether the weapon could accomplish Washington’s stated objectives, particularly against underground nuclear facilities.

The bomb carries about 8,500 kilograms of explosive and detonates above ground, spreading its blast across a wide surface area rather than penetrating deeply into rock or reinforced structures. A source familiar with the plans told CNN that it was designed primarily for wide-area clearance, not as a deep-penetration weapon. Concerns have also been raised about possible civilian casualties.

The US previously used the weapon in Afghanistan in 2017 against Islamic State tunnels and bunkers, killing more than 90 militants. Reuters said it could not immediately verify CNN’s report, while AFP contacted the Pentagon for comment.