Global Tensions With Iran Heighten the Impact

This incident comes against a backdrop of heightened global tensions over Iran. Recent events include a 12-day war in June 2025 involving Israel and U.S. strikes on nuclear sites, ongoing economic woes, and the regime’s brutal response to dissent. President Donald Trump has commented on the protests, warning that the crackdown may be crossing a “red line” and hinting at “strong options” for U.S. involvement.

Social Media Explodes as Videos Rack Up Millions of Views

Videos of the U-Haul incident spread rapidly online, amassing millions of views within hours. Clips showed the truck accelerating through the crowd, the immediate panic, and the furious aftermath. Social media users expressed horror, relief at the lack of fatalities, and calls for justice. Some framed it as a potential act of terrorism targeting dissidents, while others questioned whether the driver was provoked or if the slogans indicated a deliberate counter-protest.