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Ongoing Story· Today

US Weighs Using Massive Bomb Against Iran, Report Claims

3 developments

IceSecurity

US Considers 'Mother of All Bombs' Against Iran Amid Rising Tensions

Translated & summarized from Ice by baba

BusinessNeutral tone

Hebrew · Sole source

The U.S. military has reportedly drafted plans for potential strikes in Iran, including the use of the "Mother of All Bombs," targeting energy infrastructure and nuclear sites amid rising regional tensions. These plans are being considered ahead of U.S. midterm elections, though President Trump has indicated he would not initiate new attacks before the vote. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel would not launch a preemptive strike before its own upcoming elections but would respond forcefully if attacked.

The story in 6 lines · by baba

  • The U.S. military is reportedly considering using the "Mother of All Bombs" against Iran.
  • Potential targets include Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites.
  • The "Mother of All Bombs" is the U.S.'s most powerful non-nuclear munition.
  • U.S. plans may involve strikes before or after the November 3 midterm elections.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ruled out a preemptive strike before Israeli elections.
  • Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have impacted global energy markets, with oil prices rising.

Amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have impacted global energy markets, the United States military has reportedly developed plans for potential strikes in Iran. These plans include the possible use of the GBU-43/B bomb, known as the "Mother of All Bombs," according to a CNN report. The potential targets could include energy infrastructure and nuclear sites, should President Donald Trump decide to renew attacks.

The "Mother of All Bombs," weighing approximately 9.8 tons, is the most powerful non-nuclear munition in the U.S. arsenal. It is GPS-guided and designed for surface bursts, causing widespread destruction through its blast wave. However, its effectiveness against deeply buried, fortified underground facilities is questionable, as it is not designed for deep penetration.

One specific site of concern for the U.S. is a complex referred to as "Mount Machus," located about two kilometers south of the Natanz nuclear facility. Satellite imagery analysis from the American research institute CSIS in September indicated extensive fortification work at the site during 2026, though it could not confirm if uranium enrichment was already occurring there.

U.S. officials reportedly believe that deploying the massive bomb could have a significant psychological impact, even if it fails to destroy underground installations. The Pentagon's contingency plans also consider strike options before or after the U.S. midterm elections on November 3, despite Trump's recent statements against initiating further attacks before the vote.

Meanwhile, Israel is also approaching its own general elections on October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a radio interview that he does not intend to launch a preemptive strike against Iran before the Israeli elections but warned of a strong response if Israel is attacked. Netanyahu did not elaborate on his stance regarding a post-election strike or comment on the reported U.S. plans.

IceOther · Tel Aviv

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