The United States military has developed new strike plans that could involve deploying its largest non-nuclear bomb against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites if President Donald Trump orders a resumption of combat operations, CNN reported on Thursday, citing multiple US officials familiar with the plans.
The proposed deployment of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), popularly known as the “mother of all bombs,” would mark a significant escalation in the conflict, although US officials have questioned whether the weapon would be effective against Iran’s heavily fortified underground nuclear facilities.
According to CNN, the military plans include potential strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities, including Pickaxe Mountain, where the United States and Israel believe Iran has stored components of its nuclear programme.
The plans are among several military options being considered by the Trump administration as it seeks a way to end the conflict while presenting the outcome as a strategic victory.
Trump Weighs Military Options Ahead of Midterm Elections
Trump faces growing political pressure to bring the war to an end as Republicans prepare for potential voter backlash ahead of the US midterm elections.
Although the president has publicly indicated that he would not launch additional strikes before the elections, several White House advisers reportedly remain uncertain whether that position is final.
CNN reported that Trump has instructed the military to develop additional strike options, including attacks on energy infrastructure, potentially followed by a declaration of victory and a withdrawal of US forces from the region.
Administration officials have also discussed military actions designed to deliver a symbolic victory without ruling out the possibility of a diplomatic agreement, including an arrangement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
However, US officials have questioned whether further bombing would achieve the administration’s stated objectives or provide a clear path towards ending the conflict.
