McCain makes second controversial Iran joke of the campaign

McCain’s second Iran joke of the cycle is grabbing headlines.

(CNN) - Presumptive Republican nominee John McCain is raising eyebrows for a joke about killing Iranians - the second time the cycle a stab at humor involving the rogue nation has landed him in hot water.

At a Tuesday campaign event in Pennsylvania, a questioner referred to a recent survey that revealed cigarette exports to Iran rose significantly during the Bush administration. McCain replied jokingly, "Maybe that's a way of killing them."

After a few chuckles from those in attendance, he added "I meant that as a joke, as a person who hasn't had a cigarette in 28 years."

At a campaign event before the New Hampshire primary, the Arizona senator parodied the Beach Boys single “Barbara Ann,” replacing the lyrics with the words "Bomb Iran."