The term 'Axis of EVIL' is a phrase that was first used by former US President George W. Bush in 2002 to describe countries that he believed posed a threat to the world. The three countries mentioned in the crossword solutions are IRAN, Italy, and EVIL. IRAN is a country in the Middle East that has been accused of sponsoring terrorism and developing nuclear weapons. Italy is a European country that has been a member of the European Union since its inception in 1957. EVIL is a term used to describe actions or intentions that are considered morally wrong or harmful. All three countries have been identified as part of the Axis of EVIL.