US weighs massive bomb against Iran
The gist
CNN reports U.S. plans could drop a 21,600-pound MOAB on Iranian energy and nuclear sites.
No decision is announced, but talks and strike planning are running in parallel.
How it unfolded
- 2003The MOAB was developed during the Iraq War; during final testing, military officials described it as a weapon designed mainly for "psychological operations."
- 2017Trump, in his first term, authorized a MOAB strike on ISIS positions in Afghanistan; Afghan officials said it killed 36 ISIS fighters and hit fortified tunnels.
- Feb 28, 2026The conflict began; Iran has restricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since then.