Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has demanded that Saudi Arabia join the ongoing military operation against Iran, proposing a mutual defense agreement that would guarantee perpetual protection for Saudi territory should it be attacked by Iran.

In a statement aired on Monday, Graham said he had been “Saudi Arabia’s biggest champion” and noted that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had led the kingdom in a “completely different direction, in a good way.”

The senator added: “I’m willing to do a mutual defense agreement with your country to give you protection in perpetuity. Under the agreement I’ve been pushing, if you’re attacked by Iran, we would go to war for you.”

Graham also pointed to an attack on the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh as a reason for his demand: “To Saudi Arabia: our embassy was hit in Riyadh, do you not have an obligation to join the fight with us?”

The incident occurred earlier this month when multiple drones attacked the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, days after the United States and Israel launched joint strikes against Tehran.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense reported that the drone attack on its embassy resulted in “limited fire and minor material damage” to the building. The ministry later condemned the Iranian strikes.

Graham faced immediate criticism for his remarks, with some questioning his authority to unilaterally propose such a defense agreement. One commenter noted: “Where does he think he derives the authority to unilaterally offer permanent ‘defense agreements’ to foreign countries? Who exactly made this effeminate weirdo emperor of the world? I don’t remember voting on that measure?”

The senator also drew backlash for stating he would remain with Israel “until our dying day,” saying: “I will be with Israel until our dying day. They’re the best ally we could hope for.”

Graham claimed in a public statement that Saudi Arabia is refusing to use force against Iran, which recently named the son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as its ruler.

He wrote: “It is my understanding the Kingdom refuses to use their capable military as part of an effort to end the barbaric and terrorist Iranian regime who has terrorized the region and killed 7 Americans.” Graham then questioned why America should enter into a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia if it is unwilling to join the fight.

Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry has condemned Iranian attacks within its borders but has not yet responded to Graham’s call for military cooperation. In a statement, the ministry affirmed that “the Kingdom retains its full right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its security, sovereignty, and the safety of its citizens.”