The International Court of Justice ruled that Japan’s whaling program in the Antarctic is not for scientific purposes, and has revoked all permits previously given for that. Japan has stated that they will abide by the ruling, though I remain skeptical that this means the whaling ships will not return to the southern seas next winter. But, it’s a great step in increasing protection for whales worldwide. Thanks, Australia, for standing up to Japan’s illegal actions and helping to bring this case to court! Also thanks to Sea Shepherd for minimizing Japan’s effectiveness in whaling while this court case dragged out.