Iceland Extends Controversial Whaling Licenses Amid Divided Public Opinion
Iceland has decided to extend whaling licenses for two vessels until 2029, despite growing opposition among its citizens, with 51% now against the practice. The licenses allow for the annual hunting of 209 common minke whales and 217 fin whales. Environmental groups criticize the decision as detrimental to animal welfare and climate interests. Only one whaling vessel, Hvalur, remains active, while the other, Tjaldtanga ehf, has not reported catches since 2018. The international community continues to grapple with the contentious issue of whaling and its environmental impacts.