US military adds its largest non-nuclear bomb to Iran strike plans, CNN reports

The US military has drawn up new strike plans against Iran that include possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), CNN reported. The plans would apply if President Trump orders combat operations to resume. One source told CNN that Trump ordered additional strike packages covering "a lot of energy infrastructure." Plans against nuclear sites, including the underground complex known as Pickaxe Mountain, explicitly included the bomb.

Israeli coverage focused on what the plan suggests about US intentions. Ynet noted that the bomb is the largest non-nuclear weapon in the US arsenal and has been used in combat only once. It said the wording of the report suggests Washington could use the weapon, declare that it had achieved its objectives, and then withdraw forces. Ynet also cited doubts about how effective the bomb would be. CNN quoted one assessment stating the MOAB is "definitely not designed as a deep penetration warhead." Globes ran the report alongside a separate item saying Israel is blocking the creation of a base for the international force that the US-led "Board of Peace" plans for Gaza.

Iran has shown no sign of changing its position. On Wednesday, Iranian officials said they were "counting the moments" until they could strike US warships. Iran has warned before that any attack on its nuclear facilities would widen the regional war. Satellite analysis cited by Euronews Persian in September showed reinforced tunnel entrances at Pickaxe Mountain. Israel says Iran moved enriched uranium and centrifuges there after the June 2025 strikes. Iran has not confirmed this.