The "Axis of Evil" is a term used to describe the countries Iraq, Iran and North Korea. The phrase was introduced by President George W. Bush in his 29 January 2002 State of the Union address. The three countries were grouped as threats to the United States capable of terrorism and nuclear attack.

The "Axis of Evil" phrase originated from then-Bush speechwriter David Frum. Frum described Iraq, Iran and North Korea in the written speech as an “Axis of Hatred.” The term was then altered during the oral speech by George W. Bush to “Axis of Evil.” The phrase drew on the historical example of the American enemies during World War II, the Axis powers. These powers included Germany, Japan and Italy.

The phrase "Axis of Evil" was developed by Frum for George W. Bush as a means of making the case for war, eloquently and forcefully. Frum drew upon the example of President Franklin Roosevelt’s 8 December 1941 speech to the United States people leading them into war.

Frum used this phrase to represent the growing culture of nuclear enemies faced by the United States. This was a feeling intended and aimed at Iraq at the time by much of the American people. But, with the term "Axis of Evil," extended to Iran and North Korea by George W. Bush and David Frum. Bush’s goal was to prevent these regimes from threatening American and its allies.

The term "Axis of Evil" was used to pinpoint these common enemies of the United States and rally the country in support of the war on terror. Iran, Iraq and North Korea were portrayed by George W. Bush during the State of the Union as possessing nuclear weapons. They were lumped together as chief instigators in terrorist actions and attacks. Many have called this speech a justification by George W. Bush for his War on Terror policy. Others saw it as a strong statement by the president in response to growing hostilities from Iran, Iraq and North Korea.

Bush, in his State of the Union address, condemned the Axis of Evil as totalitarian regimes who were stockpiling weapons of mass destruction. He lambasted the these countries for denying their people’s freedom, rejecting international inspections, and cultivating nerve gas and anthrax. He illustrated the three countries as a grave and growing danger.

In the years following the State of the Union address, some have tried to add countries to the Axis of Evil. Among the countries bandied have been Cuba, Libya and Syria. But, when delivered in 2002, the Axis of Evil speech was meant as a clear warning by George W. Bush against the actions of Iran, Iraq and North Korea.