TRUMP RULES OUT USING A NUCLEAR BOMB ON IRAN : WHY THAT MATTERS

What happened: Trump told Newsmax he would not use a nuclear weapon against Iran, saying "I wouldn't use nuclear. We don't have to." He did not deny reports the US is considering the non-nuclear MOAB, and declined to say whether he authorised its use. Key numbers: MOAB payload about 8,500kg of high explosives, weight 9,800kg, length just over nine metres, blast radius 1km. Why it matters: The comments were his first explicit ruling out of nuclear use after earlier speculation, and appeared to confirm another phase of the war is likely, possibly after the midterms. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

Trump ruling out nuclear strike on Iran signals de-escalation in geopolitical tensions.

Trump ruling out nuclear strike on Iran signals de-escalation in geopolitical tensions. — impact context not separately stored; see What changed.