Iceland's government has authorized the country's sole whaling company, Hvalur, to hunt whales in the upcoming 2024 season, a move that has been strongly condemned by animal welfare organizations. The license allows Hvalur to kill a total of 128 fin whales, despite concerns over animal suffering and the conservation status of these majestic mammals.

The Icelandic government defended its decision, stating that it was based on a precautionary approach and a growing emphasis on the sustainable utilization of resources. They cited advice from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute in 2017 and the ecosystem factors recommended by the International Whaling Commission.

However, the Humane Society International, an animal protection charity, criticized the granting of the license due to clear evidence of immense animal suffering. An independent report by the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority in 2022 revealed distressing facts about the whaling process. The report found that some whales took up to two hours to die, and 41% of the hunted whales experienced immense suffering for an average of 11.5 minutes, contravening Iceland's Animal Welfare Act.

Iceland, along with Norway and Japan, remains one of the few countries that allow commercial whaling. The practice has faced staunch opposition from conservation groups who argue that the fin whale population is vulnerable to extinction.

Hvalur, believed to operate two whaling vessels, was granted permission last year to hunt 161 fin whales. The whaling season in Iceland typically spans from June to September, ending before the weather becomes too windy and dark. The majority of the whale meat obtained from these hunts is exported to Japan.

A recent survey conducted in Iceland revealed that 51% of the population opposes commercial whaling. This further highlights the divide between public opinion and the government's decision.

While the license issued to Hvalur aligns with the recommendations of scientific institutions, the concerns raised by animal welfare organizations and the opposition from a significant portion of the Icelandic population cannot be ignored. The debate surrounding commercial whaling continues to raise important questions about ethics, conservation, and the treatment of animals.