Reported by:
Cherry Meigh Timbol
News Content Editor
Published October 16, 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing the possibility of renewed military strikes against Iran, as Pentagon planners develop options for potential attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities. No final decision to launch a new offensive has been announced.
According to a Reuters report published October 15, citing CNN, the U.S. military has developed plans that could include using the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), commonly known as the “mother of all bombs.” The weapon is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the U.S. arsenal.
The reported plans could involve strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites if Trump orders combat operations to resume. However, military officials have reportedly questioned whether using the massive bomb would achieve Washington’s broader strategic objectives. Reuters said it could not independently verify CNN’s report.
The discussions come amid stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran over ending the conflict, which began in February 2026. The two sides have exchanged proposals, but disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program and other conditions have prevented a settlement.
Trump said on October 8 that the United States would not attack Iran before the November 3 midterm elections, citing what he described as productive discussions with the Iranian government. Despite that statement, reports indicate that military planning for possible operations after the elections is continuing.
The Pentagon had previously instructed U.S. Central Command to complete preparations for potentially resuming major combat operations, according to Axios. The preparations did not include a specific launch date, and the president had not made a final decision at the time of that report.
The conflict has also affected regional security and global energy markets. Iran has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for international oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, while attacks on vessels and infrastructure have increased tensions across the Gulf.
As of October 16, the United States had not publicly announced a new strike on Iran. The timing and scope of any potential military action remain uncertain, while diplomatic efforts to end the conflict continue.
