Chaos erupted at a pro–Iranian freedom rally in Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon after a U-Haul truck bearing a stark anti–regime change message plowed through a crowd of demonstrators, sending people scrambling in panic.

Witnesses said the truck barreled toward protesters waving Iranian flags, attempting to force its way through the gathering as a large banner taped to its side declared: ‘No Shah, No Regime. USA: Don’t Repeat 1953. No Mullah.’

The shocking moment unfolded in broad daylight in the Westwood area of the city as the vehicle appeared to deliberately drive into the rally area, raising immediate fears of a politically motivated attack.

Hundreds of people were marching in the neighborhood to voice their support for Iranian protesters.

At least 583 people have been killed since unrest began in Iran two weeks ago over the economic crisis, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.

It was not immediately clear whether any demonstrators were injured, and authorities had not released further details as of Sunday evening.

Daily Mail report