King Harald of Norway, Europe’s oldest living monarch and the country’s ceremonial head of state since 1991, is in a very serious condition while receiving treatment in hospital, according to the royal court. The 89-year-old king was admitted on August 17 and has been undergoing medical care for complications related to a bacterial blood infection and fluid retention.
The palace released statements indicating a significant decline in King Harald’s health in recent days. Initial reports cited the bacterial infection as the primary concern, while some official communications also mentioned haemolytic anaemia, a disorder characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, as contributing to his condition. Crown Prince Haakon, 53, King Harald’s son and heir apparent, has assumed the role of regent amid the king’s illness.
In response to the king’s health situation, Crown Prince Haakon and Queen Sonja, the king’s wife, have canceled all scheduled public engagements. Members of the royal family, including the crown prince and queen, have been seen arriving at Oslo University Hospital, where the king is receiving treatment. The gathering of family alongside medical staff underscores the severity of the situation.
The news has prompted widespread concern at both national and governmental levels. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled a planned trip to Germany, expressing solidarity with the royal family and the nation. “The whole nation is with us as we send warm thoughts to the king and the rest of the royal family,” he said in a statement. The speaker of Norway’s parliament, Masud Gharahkhani, cut short an official visit to Iceland to return home, while members of the Committee on Foreign Relations and Defence also ended their missions abroad early. Additionally, the Lutheran Church of Norway’s College of Bishops, who were visiting Rome, announced plans to return promptly.
King Harald, who celebrated his 89th birthday earlier this year, had previously indicated plans to reduce his official duties due to age but affirmed his commitment to remain king for life, ruling out abdication. He has been a central figure in Norway’s monarchy for more than three decades, with his tenure marked by a largely ceremonial role.
As the situation remains fluid, the nation and government continue to monitor the king’s condition closely, with many awaiting further updates from the royal palace and medical team.