Norway's royal family gathers at King Harald's bedside as his condition worsens
The 89-year-old has been in hospital for over a week receiving treatment for a rare blood condition.
Norway's King Harald V is fighting for his life in a critical condition at Oslo University Hospital. Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon have abandoned all royal duties to be by his bedside, joining other members of the royal family. The 89-year-old monarch has been hospitalized for over a week due to haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood disorder that severely reduces red blood cell count.
Haakon, the 53-year-old heir apparent, has been acting as regent for his father while he recuperates. Princess Astrid, Harald's sister, is also present at the hospital. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed the nation's concern and support for the royal family. King Harald, who ascended the throne in 1991, has faced numerous health issues, including a pacemaker implantation in 2024.
The royal family has weathered a tumultuous year, with Queen Mette-Marit undergoing a lung transplant and her son, Marius Borg Høiby, facing prison time for rape convictions.
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