Whaling nations block South Atlantic sanctuary proposal at IWC

Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay's proposal to create a South Atlantic whale sanctuary failed at the IWC meeting, with 39 votes in favor, 18 against, and 3 abstentions, falling short of the required three-quarters majority. The opposition from whaling countries, including Japan, Norway, and Iceland, reflects ongoing tensions over commercial whaling and conservation efforts. The outcome underscores the persistent deadlock in international whale management and the influence of pro-whaling blocs.