US Military Considers Using ‘Mother of All Bombs’ Against Iran’s Energy and Nuclear Facilities

Darwin, October 15 : The US military is considering using America’s most powerful non-nuclear bomb, known as the “Mother of All Bombs,” to strike Iran’s energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities. The weapon could be deployed if President Donald Trump orders a resumption of military operations against Iran, CNN reported, citing several US officials.

The GBU-43/B, commonly known as the “Mother of All Bombs” (MOAB), weighs approximately 9,800 kilograms. It is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal. Trump first used the weapon in 2017 to strike Islamic State positions in Afghanistan.

Using the bomb against Iran could further escalate the ongoing conflict. However, some military officials have expressed doubts about its effectiveness. Although the weapon can unleash a devastating explosion over a wide area, it may not be capable of destroying hardened nuclear facilities buried deep underground.

The United States and Israel believe that parts of Iran’s nuclear programme are located in the Pickaxe Mountain area. Facilities there are thought to be protected by layers of granite inside the mountain. According to sources familiar with the matter, the bomb does not have sufficient earth-penetrating capability to reach and destroy such deeply buried installations.

The bomb’s enormous blast could devastate a large area. Its use against energy infrastructure or other facilities near populated areas could also cause civilian casualties.

According to US officials, the Trump administration is exploring military options that could bring the war to an end while allowing Washington to claim victory. Political pressure on the administration has also increased as public support for the war declines ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections.

Trump recently said he had no plans to launch fresh strikes before the elections. However, some of his advisers believe that decision could change depending on how the situation develops.

The White House has said Trump is keeping all options open to ensure that Iran never develops nuclear weapons. The Pentagon has also stated that it prepares plans for a range of military scenarios to carry out the president’s orders.

Some military analysts believe that decisively defeating Iran could require a major ground operation involving the deployment of US troops. Such an operation could put thousands of American soldiers at risk of death. However, Trump has shown little interest in sending US ground forces into Iran.

The bomb was developed during the 2003 Iraq War. It detonates before striking the ground, releasing an enormous blast and powerful pressure waves across the surrounding area. Initially, the weapon was also designed to have a psychological impact by intimidating large enemy forces and potentially forcing them to surrender.

Source: CNN