Trump rules out nukes but may use MOAB on Iran — SkimNews
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- Trump ruled out using nuclear or tactical nuclear weapons against Iran, stating 'We’re the greatest nuclear power in the world' and that such weapons are unnecessary.
- Trump confirmed the 'mother of all bombs' (MOAB) is not nuclear and declined to rule out its use, amid reports the administration is considering it for strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
- Trump suggested a new US strike on Iran is likely soon, particularly targeting the underground nuclear facility at Pickaxe Mountain, to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
- Trump dismissed plans to send US ground troops into Iran, reversing earlier hints about troop deployment, citing the country's mountainous terrain and operational risks.
- The MOAB carries 8,500kg of high explosives, is 9.8 tonnes and over nine metres long, requiring a C-130 Hercules for deployment due to its size and weight.
- Military analysts question the MOAB’s effectiveness against deeply buried Iranian nuclear facilities and note logistical challenges in accessing Iran’s rugged terrain with large aircraft.
Why it matters: By ruling out nuclear use but keeping the MOAB on the table, Trump narrows the scope of escalation while maintaining high-pressure tactics. This shifts the risk calculus for Iran and US allies, as a massive conventional strike could provoke retaliation without crossing the nuclear threshold—potentially triggering regional conflict before the US midterm elections.
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