Whaling Standoff in Iceland: Icelandic coast guards and special forces seized the Paul Watson Foundation’s protest vessel Bandero after a distress call from the whaling ship Hvalur 9, detaining 21 crew members and moving the case into police hands; authorities say the ship ignored orders to leave Icelandic waters and to stop its engines, and police are seeking deportation and a re-entry ban while the Transport Authority revoked the vessel’s seaworthiness certificate. Road Safety in the Westfjords: Dalabyggð’s mayor is urging urgent repairs on a dangerously degraded stretch of the Westfjords Road, warning that postponed resurfacing could lead to more serious accidents. Gender Violence Support: The National Church of Iceland launched a free, confidential pastoral care service for people on the front line of gender-based violence efforts, including support for emotional strain and online harassment. Festival Policing: Police detained six people overnight during Þjóðhátíð in Vestmannaeyjar and opened an investigation into suspected drug dealing. Weather Watch: Bright conditions are expected with temperatures up to 20°C in South Iceland, but gusty winds remain a hazard in the east. Science & Climate: New research using Iceland’s geothermal waters finds fish adapt to warming habitats with clear physical, behavioural, and genetic differences. Solar Eclipse Planning: Coverage highlights August 12’s eclipse path, with western Iceland and Reykjavík among the best places for viewing.