A shocking incident unfolded in Westwood, Los Angeles, on January 11, 2026, when a U-Haul truck drove into a group of demonstrators taking part in an anti-Iran regime rally. The protest was being held outside the Wilshire Federal Building, where thousands of people had gathered to express solidarity with ongoing protests in Iran.

At least two people were injured when the truck entered the crowd. Witnesses reported chaos as protesters scattered while police rushed to the scene. The driver was later removed from the vehicle and taken into custody. As he was escorted away, some protesters attempted to strike him before police intervened.

The truck carried a politically charged message that read:
“No shah, no regime. USA: Don’t repeat 1953, no mullah.”
This slogan refers to the 1953 US-backed coup in Iran that overthrew the country’s prime minister and restored the Shah, a historical event still deeply sensitive in Iranian politics.

Authorities said the truck’s windshield was shattered, and broken glass was found on the road. The attached trailer appeared empty, with its back door open as police inspected the area. Officials stated that it is still unclear whether the act was deliberate or the result of panic.

The rally was organised in support of protests in Iran, which activists say have led to more than 500 deaths due to violent crackdowns by Iranian authorities.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive and whether the incident was an intentional attack.