Whaling Restart: Iceland’s commercial whaling has resumed after a two-year pause, with the vessel Hvalur 9 harpooning two fin whales—reigniting debate over marine conservation and future rules. EU Referendum Watch: Iceland is preparing a summer vote on restarting EU membership talks, with the government saying a “yes” could move negotiations toward full membership. Security Detention Update: Parliament has approved new laws creating a secure facility for up to 16 high-risk people who aren’t suitable for prison, with court-ordered supervision. Public Safety: Police are investigating a suspected donation scam across Iceland after victims were charged thousands of euros via card payments. Health Insurance Change: New residents from outside the EEA will get public health coverage sooner (cut waiting from six to three months), while travel coverage outside the EEA ends from next year. Geothermal Clean Energy: Colombia and Iceland signed a geothermal alliance to speed up clean energy development through research and training. Local Incidents: Akureyri police reported a spike in assaults and hundreds of traffic offences during the Bíladagar car festival. Earth & Road: A magnitude 3.1 quake was recorded on the Reykjanes Ridge, and a fatal motorcycle crash occurred east of Vík. Energy Tech in Iceland: Syntholene says it has completed an Iceland demonstration plant for geothermal-powered eSAF production. Tourism & Nature: Police are probing reports of off-road driving damage in South Iceland linked to foreign-registered Land Rovers.