WASHINGTON (AP) — Arizona Republican Sen. John McCain has issued an extensive statement denouncing Donald Trump's comments criticizing the parents of a Muslim Army captain killed in Iraq.

McCain said: "I cannot emphasize enough how deeply I disagree with Mr. Trump's statements. I hope Americans understand that the remarks do not represent the views of our Republican Party, its officers or candidates."

McCain added: "While our party has bestowed upon him the nomination, it is not accompanied by unfettered license to defame those who are the best among us."

Trump has previously said McCain shouldn't be regarded as a war hero for being imprisoned in Vietnam, saying "I like people who weren't captured."