King Harald of Norway is in very serious condition
King Harald V of Norway, 89, is in the hospital in “very serious” condition. His family has gathered around him, and a number of high-ranking officials have canceled their planned trips and events.
The Royal Palace of Norway announced the deterioration of the king’s condition. Harald is at Oslo University Hospital, where he is being treated for a bacterial blood infection. It was previously reported that he was receiving antibiotics and responding to treatment, but the monarch’s condition subsequently worsened. Members of the royal family arrived at the hospital and spent several hours at Harald’s bedside. Among them were his wife, Queen Sonja, and Crown Prince Haakon, who is the heir to the throne. Due to his father’s condition, Haakon also adjusted his official schedule.
News of the monarch’s health sparked a noticeable reaction in Norway. In downtown Oslo and near the Royal Palace, people gathered to get the latest updates on the king. Some brought flowers and laid them near the palace. Due to Harald’s health situation, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gar Stere also changed his plans. He canceled a trip to Germany. Norwegian Parliament Speaker Masoud Garakhani also cut short an official visit to Iceland and returned to Norway. “The entire nation stands with us, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the king and the rest of the royal family,” Støre said.
Harald V is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe. He was born on February 21, 1937, and ascended to the throne on January 17, 1991, following the death of his father, King Olav V. In June of that same year, he was crowned king at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.
King Harald primarily performs representative and ceremonial functions, but he also plays an important constitutional role. In particular, he presides over meetings of the Council of State, participates in the formal appointment of the government, and opens the autumn session of the Norwegian Parliament. In the event of the King’s illness or absence, Crown Prince Haakon may perform his duties as regent.
In recent years, the 89-year-old monarch’s health has repeatedly been a cause for concern. In August 2026, he was hospitalized, after which doctors detected a bacterial infection in his blood. According to official reports, the king initially responded to antibiotics, but his condition later deteriorated. At this time, there have been no official statements regarding the succession to the throne or a change in the king’s status. If Harald is temporarily unable to perform his duties due to illness, Crown Prince Haakon assumes those duties.
The health of 89-year-old King Harald of Norway has deteriorated during his hospital stay, the royal court reported. The monarch is receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his blood and is responding to treatment; his condition is described as stable, according to Reuters.
