What happened
The US is considering deploying its most powerful non-nuclear bomb, known as the 'mother of all bombs,' against Iran. The bomb, which weighs 21,600 pounds, is capable of devastating an area equivalent to nine city blocks.
The Pentagon has developed plans to use the bomb against Iranian nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure, according to US officials. The plans could be implemented before or after the upcoming midterm elections if President Trump authorizes renewed combat operations.
Military insiders have warned that the bomb may not be effective in achieving the US's ultimate objective of forcing Iran into submission. The bomb is designed to unleash a devastating blast across a vast area, but it may not be able to penetrate the thick layers of granite that protect Iran's underground nuclear facilities.
Despite the bomb's limitations, some officials believe that its psychological impact could demonstrate overwhelming American military strength without restarting a full-scale bombing campaign. The US has been searching for a way to end the war, which has dragged on for over six months, without appearing to have backed down.
