The speaker is praising President Obama's decision to take action against Iceland due to its whaling practices, which they view as cruel and inhumane. They also call on the president to apply similar pressure to Japan and Norway for their involvement in commercial whaling.
On a deeper level, this quote reflects broader concerns about sustainability and animal welfare in international conservation efforts. The speaker highlights the ethical issues surrounding whaling by using strong language like "barbaric," indicating that they see these practices as not only harmful but also unnecessary from an ecological standpoint. By mentioning Iceland specifically while calling for action against other countries, the statement underscores a growing global awareness of the need to protect marine life and preserve biodiversity. This perspective aims to prompt international leaders to take more decisive actions to address what is seen as unethical and environmentally damaging practices.
Hayden Panettiere, who made this statement, is an American actress known for her roles in various television shows and films. She has been an outspoken advocate for animal rights and environmental causes, often using her platform to raise awareness about issues such as whaling and wildlife conservation.