Iceland - December 12, 2024 VIDEY, ICELAND – The crew of the Icelandic Coast Guard vessel Þór successfully freed a whale trapped in an anchorage line north of Viðey late this afternoon, following a challenging overnight rescue operation. The Coast Guard received reports of the entangled whale on the evening of December 12. A specialized operations team was dispatched at midnight to assess the situation, but darkness and harsh conditions hindered efforts to cut the whale free. At daybreak, the crew of Þór resumed the mission. Using buoys, ropes, and hooks, five crew members carefully worked to untangle the animal, which surfaced only briefly and remained firmly trapped in the line. By 6 p.m., the team managed to sever the rope, and the whale swam away freely. Witnesses reported the animal appeared relieved after enduring the ordeal throughout the night and day. The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority was notified of the operation, which highlights the skill and perseverance of the Coast Guard crew in safeguarding marine life.