Reykjavík — Iceland’s newspapers this Tuesday are dominated by a single, polarising story: the return of commercial whaling after a two-year hiatus. As the summer solstice passes and the island nation basks in near-round-the-clock daylight, the Hvalur whaling fleet has set sail once more, igniting fierce debate between tradition, economic pragmatism, and animal welfare.

Whaling Resumes After Two-Year Pause

Iceland’s commercial whaling industry has resumed operations after two consecutive seasons without a single whale being caught, despite valid permits remaining in place. The first catch of the season was made overnight by the vessel Hvalur 9, which harpooned two fin whales after departing on Friday evening. According to RÚV, Iceland’s public broadcaster, the vessel is expected to return to the whaling station in Hvalfjörður with the animals in the early hours of the morning.

The two fin whales mark the first whales killed in a commercial hunt since the 2023 season. Iceland halted whaling in 2024 and 2025 due to reduced demand and declining profitability. The industry’s return comes despite growing public opposition in Iceland and the government’s stated intention to introduce legislation that could ban the practice altogether this autumn.

Protest and Controversy in Reykjavík Harbour

The departure of one of the whaling ships was accompanied by a symbolic protest that captured international attention. An activist tied himself to the mast of the ship in Reykjavík harbour. He later disembarked and was escorted by police, according to media reports. The gesture reflects the recurring tensions surrounding commercial whaling, an increasingly isolated practice globally.

Iceland remains one of three countries in the world that still allows commercial whaling, along with Norway and Japan. The 2026 summer season marks the return of the hunt between mid-June and mid-September.

Criticism from Animal Rights Organisations

Animal protection organisations have been swift to condemn the resumption. Joanna Swabe, Europe director of the NGO Humane World for Animals, expressed deep dismay at the development.

“It is deeply disheartening to see the Icelandic whaling ship leave port,” Swabe said in comments reported by international media. She criticised the lack of a “humane way” to kill the whales, stressing that they are being subjected to a “probably atrocious” death. Swabe also noted that there is very little demand for whale meat in Iceland, which she said calls into question the continuation of the activity.

The criticism has been echoed across the political spectrum in Iceland, where public opinion has swung towards a ban in recent years. Most of the country’s whale meat is exported to Japan.

Government’s Uncertain Position

The resumption comes at a politically uncertain moment. In 2023, the government issued a five-year permit authorising fin whale hunts, a decision that has remained in force despite repeated calls for the practice to end. Minister of Industries Hanna Katrín Friðriksson has pointed to that permit when questioned about the future of whaling. At the same time, she has announced plans to present legislation this winter that would ban whaling altogether.

For now, the industry remains legally permitted to operate. The latest advice from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute recommends a maximum catch of 150 fin whales and 168 minke whales during the current season. These quotas represent a reduction from previous recommendations: 150 fin whales is down 28% from earlier advice, while 168 minke whales represents a 23% reduction.

Editorial Commentary in Morgunblaðið

Iceland’s newspaper of record, Morgunblaðið, dedicates its editorial pages today to a range of pressing national issues. The government’s fiscal plan faces criticism from various quarters, including Þorsteinn Víglundsson, former vice-chairman of Viðreisn and current chairman of the Industry Association.

Another editorial marks ten years since the Brexit referendum, noting that Britons are disappointed but do not wish to rejoin the EU. A separate commentary describes it as “only a matter of time” before the van appears at 10 Downing Street to carry Prime Minister Keir Starmer out after less than two years in office, citing a “Trausti ruined” situation, unrest in the country, and public finances in turmoil.

Natural Wonders and Conservation

In a lighter vein, Morgunblaðið features an interview with Díana Júlíusdóttir, a ranger at Þingvellir National Park, who describes her work as a privilege.

“I get to work at a place that matters a great deal to Icelanders,” Díana told the newspaper. “It is a privilege to work at one of the most remarkable places in the country”. She expressed hope that visitors will leave with respect for nature after their visit to Þingvellir.

The ranger’s comments come as Iceland’s highlands enter peak tourist season, with Kerlingarfjöll highlighted in the newspaper as offering spectacular viewpoints, accommodation to suit all needs, and a wide range of activities.

Music and Culture

The arts page features singer Lay Low — known to family and friends as Lovísa Elísabet Sigrúnardóttir — who lives in Ölfus with her family, enjoying the tranquillity and close-knit community. She is currently working on a new album and is about to embark on a musical journey abroad with Emilíana Torrini.

Meanwhile, the Nordic Forum for Dance Research (NOFOD) is hosting its 17th international conference in Reykjavík from June 23rd to 26th. The conference is being held in collaboration with the Iceland Academy of the Arts and takes place at the school’s premises in Stakkahlíð. The theme, “Centre & Periphery: Dance, Identity & the Politics of Place,” draws inspiration from Iceland’s unique position — often described as being on the periphery of the Nordic region, yet seen by locals as a central meeting point between continents.

An international conference exploring the complex relationship between humans and whales throughout history is also being held on June 22–23. Topics include human–whale interactions in Iceland and Northern Europe, around the Iberian Peninsula, in the Pacific, and in Asia — a timely discussion given today’s whaling news.

Sport: Hammer Throw Victory in Copenhagen

On the sporting front, Iceland’s Guðrún Karítas Hallgrímsdóttir achieved one of the best results of her career at the Copenhagen Athletics Games on Monday. She beat European champion Sarah Fantini and European Throwing Cup gold medallist Katrine Koch Jacobsen to win the women’s hammer throw.

The victory represents a significant achievement for Icelandic athletics on the international stage.

Earthquake Detected

A minor earthquake measuring magnitude 1.6 was recorded at 02:39 GMT on Tuesday, 14.5 km south-southeast of Húsafell. The tremor, which struck 72 km from Reykjavík, was light and caused no reported damage.

Midsummer Events

As Iceland enjoys its season of the midnight sun, a Midsummer Night’s Walk with Stefán Pálsson is scheduled for this evening. Participants will meet at the entrance to Árbær Open Air Museum for a free walk lasting approximately one and a half to two hours, starting at 21:30.

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This roundup draws on reporting from Morgunblaðið, RÚV, Vísir, Iceland Review, and other Icelandic news sources for June 23, 2026.