Whaling Returns: Iceland’s whaling fleet is back at sea after a two-year pause, with one of two remaining ships departing Reykjavík as quotas are set at up to 150 fin whales and 168 minke whales, while protests continue and a government bill to ban whaling is expected this winter. EU Referendum: Iceland will vote on 29 August on whether to restart EU membership talks, with opponents warning it’s a “huge step away from democracy” and supporters arguing it could strengthen the economy and trade position. Local Safety & Infrastructure: Reykjavík City will skip a full relining of Vesturbæjarlaug’s outdoor pool this summer, opting for localized repairs after systemic lining defects and repeated closures. Public Order at Þingvellir: Police are preparing for Bergmál at Þingvellir, with road closures from 3:00 PM to midnight and about 100 officers on duty for an expected crowd of around 20,000. Rescue Update: An 80-person rescue operation was launched after a hiker suffered a broken leg at Háifoss, with communications issues in the area prompting extra specialist support. Culture & Experience: Sigur Rós’ ÁRA immersive event is set to run at the Schwarzman Centre from June 26 to July 19, using spatial audio and live recordings. Global Watch: The UN Security Council warned of rising atrocity risk in Sudan after RSF drone strikes and renewed fighting around El-Obeid.