U-Haul Driver Plows Through Crowd at Los Angeles Iran Protest (Video)

A peaceful pro–Iranian freedom rally in Los Angeles exploded into chaos on Sunday when a U-Haul truck shot through a crowd of demonstrators, leaving people screaming and diving out of the way.

The incident happened in the heart of Westwood. Hundreds had gathered to support the ongoing protest movement inside Iran, where government crackdowns have been blamed for hundreds of deaths. Many in the LA crowd waved Iranian flags. Others carried signs demanding global action.

That’s when a rented U-Haul rolled directly toward them.

Witnesses said the driver pushed into the packed street while a large banner flapped against the truck’s side panel. It read: “No Shah. No Regime. USA: Don’t Repeat 1953. No Mullah.”

To many in the crowd, the message was instantly recognizable. The reference to 1953 recalled the CIA-backed coup that helped restore the Shah to power — a moment that still shapes Iranian politics and diaspora tensions seven decades later.

“When I saw that truck coming at us, I thought it was deliberate,” said protester Laila Moradi, who ran as the vehicle pushed forward. “People were shouting. Everyone started scrambling. It felt like an attack.”

Cellphone videos show demonstrators jumping aside as the truck keeps moving until it finally stops near the center of the rally. Dozens immediately surround the vehicle. Some pound on the sides. Others smash the windows as anger erupts.

A man is eventually pulled out by law enforcement. Officers move quickly to shield him from the crowd, forming a perimeter as several protesters attempt to hit him with flagpoles.

“He almost killed people,” said Arman R., another witness. “We came here to support freedom in Iran. We didn’t expect to be fighting for our safety in Los Angeles.”

The Los Angeles Fire Department said three people were evaluated for injuries. Two refused treatment. A third remained with paramedics for further assessment.

Police have not yet identified the driver or confirmed a motive, though officers at the scene told reporters they are investigating whether the incident was intentional.

The clash unfolded as protests in Iran continue to escalate. According to Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 583 people have been killed during the latest wave of unrest linked to the country’s worsening economic crisis and political repression.

Westwood’s rally was part of a nationwide show of solidarity.

Instead, it became a scene of panic.

“This could have ended much worse,” LAPD Sgt. Daniel Ruiz said. “We’re reviewing video. We’re interviewing witnesses. And we’re asking the public to stay calm while we sort out what happened.”

More updates are expected as police gather details from the chaotic scene.