The U.S. military is considering deploying the Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB) bomb against Iranian nuclear and energy sites if President Donald Trump orders a resumption of combat operations.
Why it matters: The potential use of the 21,600-pound MOAB would mark a major escalation in the eight-month conflict with Iran, as public support for the war wanes ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
The MOAB is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the U.S. arsenal, containing approximately 18,700 pounds of high explosives.
Military plans include targeting Pickaxe Mountain, believed to house parts of Iran's nuclear program, and energy infrastructure to undermine Tehran's economy.
Polling shows that 69% of Americans believe the war is not worth fighting, and 65% blame Trump’s policies for high fuel prices.
Driving the news: According to reports, the U.S. military has developed strike plans that could involve using the MOAB against Iranian targets if Trump gives the green light. This consideration comes as diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions appear stalled.
Trump stated earlier this month that he would not attack Iran before the midterm elections but emphasized that Iran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Iran has restricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, 2026, prompting the U.S. to implement a blockade of Iranian ports.
Diplomatic discussions are at a standstill, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicating that Tehran is reviewing the U.S. response to its proposed plan for restarting nuclear talks.
State of play: The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has prepared various strike packages that include the MOAB as part of a strategy to inflict severe damage on Iran’s capabilities.
One proposal suggests launching strikes before a planned U.S. troop withdrawal from the region, allowing the administration to claim a victory.
Sources indicate that the MOAB might be used against surface-level energy infrastructure and the fortified Pickaxe Mountain complex.
Military officials have raised concerns about the MOAB's effectiveness against hardened targets buried under solid granite.
The big picture: The MOAB was last used in 2017 against ISIS positions in Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of 96 terrorists. Its deployment against Iran could have serious implications for civilian safety and regional stability.
Military analysts warn that the MOAB is primarily effective for area clearance rather than penetrating deep underground facilities.
The bomb's massive blast radius raises concerns about potential civilian casualties if deployed near populated areas.
Iran's military capabilities remain a concern, with recent tensions highlighted by attacks on energy installations in Saudi Arabia.
What they're saying: Pentagon officials have indicated that all options remain on the table to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
“President Trump keeps all options on the table to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon,” a White House official stated.
Some sources noted that the MOAB is seen as a psychological weapon rather than a precise tool for destroying fortified targets.
“The MOAB is a massive information operation type weapon that is great for huge area clearance but not much else,” a military source said.
By the numbers: Recent polling indicates widespread dissatisfaction with the war and its economic impact.
69% of Americans believe the conflict is not worth fighting, according to an Associated Press-NORC poll.
Gas prices have remained above $4 per gallon for over 158 days in 2026, with a record high of $6.53 per gallon recorded last month.
Only 34% of Americans support the military operation in Iran, with net support standing at -22.7%.
What's next: As the midterm elections approach, the Trump administration faces pressure to address rising energy prices and public sentiment against the war.
Trump has vowed to hold off on any new military operations until after the elections, but battlefield developments could change that stance.
Reports suggest that the U.S. may buy large quantities of Russian diesel to help alleviate domestic fuel costs.
Iran has reinforced its military positions around key energy terminals and nuclear sites in response to the U.S. threat.