during world war ii, why did japan strongly and passionately defend iwo jima?\nit was a strategic island in…

during world war ii, why did japan strongly and passionately defend iwo jima?\nit was a strategic island in the philippines.\nit was a strategic base from which to attack australia.\nit was considered part of the japanese homeland.\nit was the only island that british forces had not captured.
Answer
Brief Explanations:
Iwo Jima was considered part of the Japanese homeland during World War II, which is why Japan strongly defended it. It is not in the Philippines, not a base for attacking Australia, and British forces were not involved in the Iwo - Jima campaign.
Answer:
It was considered part of the Japanese homeland.