What justification did President Bush provide for the invasion of Iraq in 2003?

President Bush's justification for the invasion of Iraq in 2003 centered around the notion that Iraq was part of an "axis of evil." This phrase was used in his 2002 State of the Union address, where he characterized Iraq, alongside Iran and North Korea, as a nation that posed a threat to the United States and its allies through the pursuit of weapons of mass destruction and potential support for terrorist organizations. This context suggests that the invasion was framed as a preemptive measure to counter perceived threats to national and global security, particularly in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

The emphasis on the "axis of evil" narrative helped to rally support from both Congress and the public for military action, as it associated Iraq with terrorism and aggressive militarism. This characterization aimed to create a sense of urgency about the potential dangers posed by the Iraqi regime under Saddam Hussein, leading to a justification that related both to national security and a broader fight against terrorism.