EU Citizenship Rules: Iceland’s Directorate of Immigration says citizenship applicants must meet six conditions first, including an Icelandic language test (with exemptions), proper residency status, identity checks, financial independence, and no disqualifying debts or criminal history. Online Alcohol Crackdown: Health officials warn Iceland is “losing the battle” on online alcohol sales, with poor age verification at purchase and on delivery, and a rise in retailers selling alcohol online since 2020. Whaling Backlash: After a two-year pause, Hvalur has resumed fin whale hunts; by mid-July 17 were reported hunted, with critics pushing for a ban and a bill expected later this year. Business & Finance: Íslandsbanki posted ISK 7.07 billion net profit for Q2 2026, with lending growth offsetting higher costs and weaker fee income. Aquaculture: Arctic Fish’s Arctic Sea Farm became the first Icelandic fish farmer to earn GlobalGAP certification, covering food safety, welfare, environment, worker safety, and traceability. Culture & Accessibility: Iceland is hosting the Nordic Deaf Culture Festival in Selfoss, but advocates say sign-language and video interpreting services lag behind other Nordic countries. Travel & Tourism: Owners of Egilsstaðir’s Hotel Valaskjálf venue are considering turning a damaged community hall into capsule accommodation, sparking local backlash. Aviation: Air China plans a Beijing–Copenhagen–Reykjavik route starting 26 October 2026. Sports: Vikingur Reykjavik were eliminated by Hapoel Be’er Sheva 2-0 (3-2 on aggregate), with Klings Kangwa set to join Panathinaikos after a medical.