Eleven minutes. That’s how long a fin whale suffers, on average, after being struck by a harpoon. Some are pursued for hours, fighting for their lives until the very end.

Whales are emotionally complex, social beings. We can’t let them be subjected to more of this brutality.

That’s why we need to speak up, now: Despite a new government being in place, Iceland’s outdated whaling licenses have not been revoked. There is still a green light for the slaughter of over 1,000 fin whales and hundreds of minke whales over the next five years.

Time is running out. Every moment that Iceland allows this horrific practice to continue, more of these sentient beings will be at risk.

And it doesn’t make sense for the nation: Not only do the whales face unspeakable cruelty, the product–whale meat—is not needed. Whaling also hurts Iceland’s reputation, and now, the plan to kill minke whales is jeopardizing whale-watching in a remote area of the country that depends on living whales for coastal livelihoods.

Support for whaling is at an all-time low amongst Icelanders. Most envision a compassionate, modern nation that protects its natural wonders. But if these licenses stand, that vision will slip away.

It’s time to end commercial whaling for good—before another harpoon strikes.

Stop the suffering.

By signing this petition, you’re sending a clear message to the leaders of Iceland. Let’s show the world that we do not agree with the senseless killing of whales.

Whaling is cruel, unnecessary, and outdated. It’s time for Iceland to do the right thing.