The White House says North Korea and Iran are still part of an axis of evil until they abandon their nuclear ambitions.

White House spokeswoman Dana Perino told reporters Monday that until the two countries give up their nuclear weapons programs completely and verifiably, the U.S. will keep them in the “axis of evil” category defined by President George W. Bush.

Perino was quick to note, however, that Washington is pleased to see some progress in terms of diplomatic efforts toward North Korea.

As for Iran, Perino said the Middle Eastern country is missing an opportunity for a very generous incentives package, and that additional sanctions could be on the way.