Iceland Votes on EU Membership Talks Amid Economic and Sovereignty Concerns
Iceland is voting on whether to reopen European Union membership talks, with the outcome uncertain amid a heated debate over the economy, fishing rights, sovereignty, and national security.
A Gallup poll released on Friday showed a narrow majority against reopening negotiations, representing a shift from earlier surveys that had given supporters a slight lead.
Supporters of EU membership argue that it could help address high interest rates and strengthen Iceland's security amid growing geopolitical tensions. However, opponents warn that membership would undermine the country's sovereignty and weaken its control over its fishing waters.
'Today is our encounter with history,' said former Icelandic President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, a campaigner against EU membership.