A peaceful anti-Iranian regime rally in Westwood descended into chaos Sunday afternoon after a U-Haul truck drove into a crowd of demonstrators outside of a federal building, prompting violent clashes and police intervention.
Video captured the moment the truck moved toward protesters on Veteran Avenue around 3:30 p.m., sending people screaming and running for safety. Officers were seen pulling the driver from the vehicle as demonstrators surrounded him, attempting to strike him with flag poles, trash and their hands. One protester climbed onto the truck and kicked in its windshield.
BREAKING:
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) January 12, 2026
Vehicular Jihad in Los Angeles! A person driving a U-Haul with a banner on it that says “No Shah” just rammed into a group of Iranian protestors in Los Angeles who were rallying in support of the Iranian protestors fighting for their freedom!
Would not be surprised… pic.twitter.com/1JKzDMxDc9
After police removed the driver, protesters chased him as officers escorted him away in handcuffs. Authorities said the driver was hospitalized for injuries and is expected to face attempted assault with a deadly weapon charges. One protester suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Sean Zarrabi, who recorded video of the arrest, said, “People are getting their voice out, and this person comes through the crowd and tries to kill people.”
The rally was held in solidarity with ongoing protests in Iran, where demonstrators are demanding regime change amid economic collapse and political repression. Human rights activists claim at least 538 people have been killed and more than 10,000 detained during recent demonstrations.
Shilla Aran, whose family remains in Iran, described the situation as dire. “Young people are dying every day there,” she said. “They have no freedom. … Women don’t have freedom. They have to wear hijabs. They have no rights.”
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The incident comes as international tensions rise over Iran’s violent crackdown. President Donald Trump warned that Iran may have crossed a “red line,” saying the U.S. has “strong options” if peaceful protesters continue to be killed.
Police eventually issued a dispersal order, and the crowd dispersed. The damaged U-Haul was later seen surrounded by shattered glass, debris and crime scene tape. The investigation remains ongoing.
As the dust settles in Westwood, we must pray for those injured in this vile attack and for the people of Iran who continue to risk their lives in the fight for freedom against a radical and oppressive regime.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a background in journalism from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine.
