The United States military is formulating new attack strategies, including the potential deployment of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), commonly referred to as the “mother of all bombs,” to strike Iran’s energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities. This comes as President Donald Trump may consider resuming military operations, either before or after the upcoming midterm elections, according to reports from CNN.
If employed in the conflict with Iran, the MOAB would represent a significant escalation, being the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal. However, there are concerns regarding its effectiveness in achieving Trump’s declared strategic objectives or altering the course of the conflict, as noted by several military sources acquainted with the plans.
Trump is facing increasing pressure to conclude this highly unpopular war, especially as Republicans brace for negative political repercussions from voters ahead of the November 3 elections. There are few signs that a negotiated resolution is imminent, following over six months of American bombardments.
For months, Trump and his advisors have explored options that might represent a “definitive” end to the conflict, while being acutely aware of the war’s unpopularity among the American public. Although some administration figures have claimed victory in the war, Trump has been more cautious in recent remarks, refraining from declaring an end to hostilities and acknowledging that unresolved issues persist.
Iran Adjusts Tactics, Strikes More Vessels
The discussions surrounding the possible use of the MOAB come amid Iran’s recent shift in strategy, which includes employing new tactics to target vessels traversing the Strait of Hormuz. This is part of Iran’s efforts to maintain high oil prices and influence the upcoming US elections.
Approximately ten days ago, Iran began implementing various offensive tactics against ships it deemed violators of its restrictions, according to two Iranian sources who spoke to Reuters. This has resulted in a noticeable increase in attacks on these vessels.
The new strategy reflects a change in both the type and frequency of attacks, with one aim being to sway the outcome of the US elections. “The goal is to thwart the efforts of the United States and its allies to lower global oil prices,” one source stated.
This decision to adopt a new approach was made at the highest levels of Iranian leadership and was fully coordinated across the country’s governing system, officials indicated. In recent days, attacks on commercial vessels navigating the Strait have reached their highest level since the war began, according to independent data.
