Iceland voters have rejected restarting membership talks with the European Union in a tight and divisive referendum. According to the National Electoral Commission, opponents defeated the measure by a margin of 52.8% to 47.2%, a result that puts the issue to rest for now.
Opponents of restarting negotiations argued that joining the bloc would undermine national control over fishing, farming, and other top priorities. Iceland’s government has pledged to honor the result of the vote.
The country's foreign minister stated that Iceland must now find new ways to strengthen its security, including seeking bilateral cooperation and deepening ties with the bloc.
European leaders gave a reserved response to the decision, which was welcomed by far-right Euroskeptic parties. However, the European Union has insisted its enlargement process remains on track despite Iceland voting against reopening entry talks.