KATHMANDU: The U.S. military has prepared a new attack strategy, including a plan to launch a powerful non-nuclear bomb, the “Mother of All Bombs” (MOAB), targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities if military action resumes on the orders of President Donald Trump. CNN reported this on Thursday, citing U.S. officials.

U.S. officials say they are considering the option of using the bomb if Iran resumes military action before or after the November 3 midterm elections.

If the MOAB is used for the first time in the ongoing conflict with Iran, it could further escalate the war, according to CNN. However, officials familiar with the US military plan have expressed doubts about how much the use of the bomb will have an impact on achieving America’s stated strategic objectives or changing the balance of power in the war.

Tensions remain high despite diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran to end the conflict. President Trump said on Oct. 8 that he would not strike Iran again before the Nov. 3 midterm elections because talks were ongoing. But he kept open the possibility of military action after the election.

The conflict with Iran has raised concerns about regional security and global energy supplies. In particular, concerns have increased about the security of the Strait of Hormuz. This sea route, which transported the world’s largest amount of oil before the war, is considered important for international energy supply.

Weighing about 9,525 kg, the MOAB is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US Army’s stockpile. It is designed to destroy targets over a large area.