"The "Axis of Evil" was - and is - very real, as the tyrants of Iran, Iraq, and North Korea knew full well"

The "Axis of Evil" was a term coined by President George W. Bush in 2002 to refer to the 3 countries of Iran, Iraq, and North Korea. The term was used to explain the nations as a hazard to global security and stability due to their support of terrorism and quest of tools of mass damage. The leaders of these nations were well aware of the implications of the term and also the potential effects of their actions. The term was indicated to work as a cautioning to the nations as well as their leaders that the United States as well as its allies would not tolerate their actions. The term was additionally indicated to act as a tip to the worldwide community that these countries presented a real risk to international safety. The term has since been used to refer to various other nations as well as teams that pose a danger to international security.