Iceland Resumes Whaling After Two-Year Pause, First Whales Killed

Commercial whaling in Iceland has officially resumed after a two-year pause. Last week, a whaling ship returned to port with the first two fin whales of the season, sparking fierce criticism from international animal rights organizations.

The catch, confirmed by Icelandic public broadcaster RUV, marks the end of a temporary moratorium driven by falling demand for whale meat and strong competition from Norway. The current whaling license runs from 2025 through 2029. This year's quota allows up to 150 fin whales (down 28% from previous quotas) and 168 minke whales (down 23%).

The timing is politically sensitive. In just two months, Icelanders will vote in a referendum on joining the European Union, which has a strict anti-whaling policy. Animal welfare groups say the government is making a mockery of the accession talks. Domestic opposition is also growing, with polls showing a majority of Icelanders now opposing whaling. Just before the ship departed, a protester chained themselves to the mast and required police intervention.

Iceland, Norway, and Japan are the only three countries that still permit commercial whaling, ignoring the International Whaling Commission's 1986 moratorium. However, pressure is mounting. Japan, historically the largest buyer of Icelandic whale meat, has expanded its own fleet and built up massive stockpiles, largely shutting down that export market. Even in Icelandic tourist restaurants, the whale meat on the menu now mostly comes from Norway.

There may be hope for opponents: Iceland's Minister of Industry has promised to introduce legislation this autumn that would permanently ban whaling.