Norway’s King Harald in ‘extremely serious’ condition, palace confirms

The health of Norway’s King Harald has deteriorated to an “extremely serious” condition, according to a statement released by the royal palace on Thursday. The 89-year-old monarch, who is Europe’s oldest reigning head of state, has been admitted to Oslo University Hospital since 17 August.

The palace confirmed that the King is suffering from haemolytic anaemia, a condition characterised by the abnormally rapid destruction of red blood cells. This medical issue leads to fatigue and shortness of breath. His initial admission to the hospital was triggered by fluid retention resulting from cortisone treatment he was receiving.

In response to the King’s declining health, Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon have cancelled all royal engagements. Crown Prince Haakon is currently acting as regent during his father’s illness, a move that underscores the institutional continuity of the Norwegian monarchy during a period of uncertainty.

Norwegian media reported that members of the royal family, including the Queen, Crown Prince Haakon, and his wife Mette-Marit, were seen arriving at the hospital and are at the King’s bedside. The palace statement, however, provided no further details regarding the specific prognosis or immediate next steps for the monarch’s care.

King Harald, who ascended the Norwegian throne in 1991, has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. These issues previously necessitated the fitting of a pacemaker and a significant scaling back of his official schedule. Despite these physical setbacks, the King has consistently ruled out abdicating, citing the lifelong oath he took before the Norwegian parliament.

The current situation highlights the intersection of personal health and state governance, with the regency ensuring that official duties continue while the focus remains on the King’s recovery.