Humpback Whale Hunt Halted

After negotiations with the chairman of the International Whaling Commission (IWC), Japan has agreed not to target humpback whales during its annual whale hunt that is underway in the seas off Antarctica.

While whaling for scientific research is legally allowed under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, Japan's program is highly controversial worldwide.
The U.S. and Japan, although having opposite views on research whaling, have maintained a long-term dialogue to overcome differences. The concession follows several rounds of talks between the Japanese IWC vice-chairman and chairman Bill Hogarth. Hogarth has maintained a dialogue with his Japanese counterparts since the IWC meeting in June. The Japanese whaling fleet set sail on November 18.