But Bush kept returning to his theme of world-wide freedom, sending the message far beyond American borders that the country stands ready and willing to spread the doctrine throughout the world.

"All who live in tyranny and hopelessness can know the United States will not ignore your oppression, or excuse your oppressors," he said. "When you stand for your liberty, we will stand with you."

Bennett said Bush made his case "quite movingly," calling the address "a great moment in American history.

Hatch called it an "intellectually profound address that people will read and comment on for years. And they are profound remarks delivered in less than 20 minutes."

Even though Bush never mentioned Iraq directly, his message may have been intended as much to bolster morale at home, where public opinion polls show that support for the war in Iraq has dramatically eroded.

"Renewed in our strength, tested but not weary, we are ready for the greatest achievements in the history of freedom," Bush concluded.

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