Hossein Kheirandish: Traditional Medicine Controversies, Cupping Research Institute, University Dispute and Arrest
9. Political Activities and Support for Saeed Jalili
Kheirandish’s public activities have not been limited to healthcare and education.
He has also been involved in political and cultural circles in Iran.
One of the more recent examples was his support for Saeed Jalili during the 2024 Iranian presidential election.
Jalili, a conservative political figure and former nuclear negotiator, participated in the presidential election following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi.
During the campaign, Kheirandish was associated with the campaign’s Fashion and Clothing Organization Working Group.
His reported area of involvement concerned health-oriented clothing.
The subject of health-oriented apparel connects cultural policy, clothing design, public health, and lifestyle issues.
The working group’s activities formed part of a broader campaign effort involving different cultural and social policy areas.
Kheirandish’s participation demonstrated that his public profile extended into areas beyond traditional medicine.
It also attracted renewed attention to his previous media appearances and his relationships with different cultural and political institutions.
10. Hossein Kheirandish’s Arrest on November 7, 2026
The most recent major development in the case occurred on November 7, 2026.
Tasnim News Agency reported that an individual identified by the initials H.K., described as a promoter of traditional medicine, had been arrested.
According to the initial report, the arrest followed complaints filed by a private claimant and Iran’s Medical Council.
The news quickly attracted attention because the individual had previously been associated with a controversial educational institution and allegations involving academic credentials.
Subsequent reporting by Iran International explicitly identified the individual as Hossein Kheirandish.
The development brought renewed attention to the earlier Mkhitar Gosh University controversy.
What Are the Reported Reasons for the Arrest?
According to subsequent reporting, the arrest was connected to complaints involving the alleged recruitment of students through promises of obtaining academic qualifications from a recognized Armenian university.
The educational case reportedly involved claims that students had been offered opportunities to pursue advanced academic studies and receive university credentials.
The Armenian university’s denial of any Iranian branch became a central element of the controversy.
Tasnim’s initial November 7 report stated that further information about the arrest and the specific charges would be released later.
The November 8 reporting provided additional identification and background concerning the individual.
