Trump rules out using a nuclear bomb on Iran: Why that matters | US-Israel war on Iran News
In a recent interview with Newsmax, President Donald Trump explicitly ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran amid ongoing military tensions. This statement marks the first time Trump has addressed the nuclear issue directly, following heightened speculation about the potential for conflict escalation involving the United States and Iran.
During the interview, Trump underscored that the U.S. does not require nuclear capabilities to assert its military strength. “I wouldn’t use nuclear. We don’t have to. We’re the greatest nuclear power in the world,” he stated. His comments come as reports circulate regarding the possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb, commonly referred to as the “mother of all bombs,” which he clarified is not a nuclear weapon.
The backdrop of Trump’s remarks can be traced to ongoing military operations between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, with reports suggesting that attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, particularly located at Pickaxe Mountain, could be forthcoming as early as after the U.S. midterm elections scheduled for November 3. Trump conceded that further strikes might be necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities, adding, “If they had it, they would use it, in my opinion, instantaneously.”
The Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb, which weighs approximately 9,800 kilograms (about 21,605 pounds) and contains around 8,500 kilograms (nearly 18,000 pounds) of explosives, is deployed from larger aircraft, as it is too large for stealth bombers. Designed to create a massive blast effect over a wide area, it produces intense fireballs, damaging structures within a kilometer radius. However, experts have raised questions about its effectiveness against facilities deeply buried under rock.
Regarding the use of pursuing tactical nuclear weapons, Trump dismissed the notion that the MOAB falls into this category, reiterating that it is purely a conventional weapon. Previous comments from Trump had provoked speculation about the use of nuclear arms, particularly during earlier escalating rhetoric concerning Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Analysts suggest that should another U.S. attack on Iran occur, it may consist of intensive bombing campaigns aimed at critical nuclear and defense sites. Despite earlier allusions to possible troop deployments, Trump clarified that he does not foresee sending ground forces into Iran. Iran has countered by affirming it would respond to U.S. strikes by targeting neighboring nations’ infrastructure, raising concerns of broader regional instability.
As the situation develops, defense officials continue to monitor the risks associated with Iran’s military technologies and potential responses to escalating American actions.
