Sen. John McCain said Thursday that he personally called the Australian ambassador to express his support for the longtime US ally after President Trump accused the country’s prime minister of trying to export the “next Boston bomber” to the US in a deal forged under the Obama administration.

“In short, Australia is one of America’s oldest friends and staunchest allies,” McCain wrote in a statement. “We are united by ties of family and friendship, mutual interests and common values, and shared sacrifice in wartime.”

“I asked Ambassador Hockey to convey to the people of Australia that their American brothers and sisters value our historic alliance, honor the sacrifice of the Australians who have served and are serving by our side, and remain committed to the safer, freer, and better world that Australia does far more than its fair share to protect and promote,” he continued.

In a phone call with Australian leader Malcolm Turnbull, which Trump called “the worst call by far” among talks with various world leaders that day, the president became incensed that the prime minister expected him to abide by the agreement to take in 1,250 refugees from Australia.

“This is the worst deal ever,” Trump told Turnbull in the call, adding that the country was trying to send the “next Boston bombers” into the US, according to reports.

At a Thursday press conference, House Speaker Paul Ryan said, “Australia is a very central ally; they are and they will continue to be.”

As for Trump’s comments about the refugee agreement, Ryan said, “I don’t think Australia should be worried.”

“I typically don’t comment on the tweet of the hour,” he added.

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