Ghafouri’s criticism of Iran’s regional policies and the authorities for downplaying the impact of US sanctions on ordinary Iranians also drew an angry response from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. "Some people, who benefit from the country's peace and security enjoying their jobs and their favorite sports, bite the hand that feeds them,” Khamenei said in a clear reference to Ghafouri in a public speech on February 18, 2019. Ghafouri was summoned by the Ministry of Sport for an explanation for his comments within a few hours of Khamenei's speech. The footballer is also known for supporting women's right to watch football in stadiums from which they have been banned for over four decades.
