Question

during world war ii, why did japan strongly and passionately defend iwo jima? it was a strategic island in the philippines. it was a strategic base from which to attack australia. it was considered part of the japanese homeland. it was the only island that british forces had not captured.

Explanation:

Iwo Jima was a small volcanic island in the Pacific. Japan considered it part of its homeland. Losing it would be a major blow to national pride and defense. It was not in the Philippines (so first option wrong). It was not used as a base to attack Australia (second option wrong). British forces were not the main combatants here (fourth option wrong).

Answer:

It was considered part of the Japanese homeland.