US has drawn up Iran strike plans that could include the 'mother of all bombs', CNN reports

The US military has developed strike plans that could include the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, known as the "mother of all bombs", against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites if President Donald Trump orders renewed combat operations, CNN reported on Thursday 15 October, citing US officials familiar with the matter.

It is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal, and its use would mark a significant escalation of the conflict. Officials familiar with the planning discussions told CNN that questions remain about whether it would be effective in achieving Washington's strategic objectives.

The weapon has been used in combat once before. The US dropped it in April 2017 on a tunnel complex used by the Islamic State group in Nangarhar province in Afghanistan.

The Hill reported later in October that US Central Command has drawn up multiple strike options for Iran that could be used after the 3 November midterm elections if the White House authorises them. Trump has said the United States will not strike Iran before the vote. The war began in late February, and the Pentagon says it has cost 47 billion dollars.

NewsLead360 has not independently confirmed CNN's report, which relies on unnamed officials. This report was expanded on 1 November 2026.