US Plans to Drop ‘Mother of All Bombs’ on Iran

For context, the United States is weighing the employ of its most powerful non-nuclear explosive against Iran, with military office-holders including the "mother of all bombs" in options prepared for US President Donald Trump.

Key points

• Known formally as the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, the weapon carries roughly 8, 500 kilograms of explosives.
• The US previously applied the MOAB against an Islamic State tunnel network in Afghanistan in 2017, its only noted combat deployment.
• Saudis, UAE and Kuwait May Not Survive Next Phase of US-Iran War.
• Military analyst Elijah Magnier remarked the weapon could devastate exposed targets without eliminating deeply buried facilities or forcing concessions from Tehran.
• US authorities familiar with the discussions have questioned whether it could reach installations beneath Pickaxe Mountain or deliver the military results Trump wants.

Notably, the proposed strikes would target energy facilities and nuclear sites if Trump authorizes another round of combat, according to US authorities cited by CNN. The report describes contingency intends, rather than an approved bombing operation. Iranian Woman Gets Death Penalty for Blasphemous Social Media Post.

Known formally as the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, the weapon carries roughly 8, 500 kilograms of explosives. It detonates above the ground, spreading a powerful blast throughout the surrounding area.

Nevertheless, its destructive force does not necessarily produce it suitable for Iran's heavily protected nuclear facilities. Unlike a bunker-buster, the MOAB is not built to drill through thick rock or reinforced concrete before exploding.

US authorities familiar with the discussions have questioned whether it could reach installations beneath Pickaxe Mountain or deliver the military results Trump wants. Its employ near populated areas would additionally carry substantial risks for civilians.

Notably, the US previously applied the MOAB against an Islamic State tunnel network in Afghanistan in 2017, its only noted combat deployment.

Iranian authorities have meanwhile threatened retaliation against regional communications networks, data centers and other digital infrastructure if American attacks resume. Stay Connected with ProPakistani. Obtain the latest international news and global stories wherever you prefer. Follow on Google Discover. Follow on Google News Join WhatsApp. See more ProPakistani stories in Google Search and Top Stories.

Taken together, the developments around US Plans to Drop 'Mother of All Bombs' on Iran point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.