Norwegians mourn King Harald as son succeeds to throne

Thousands of Norwegians gathered outside the royal palace to mourn King Harald, who died aged 89 after a three and a half decade reign. Harald's 53-year-old son, Haakon VIII, immediately succeeded his father on the throne, announcing he would reign under the same name. Haakon arrived at the palace with his 22-year-old daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, who will serve as the new crown princess.

In a statement, Haakon thanked the government and Norwegian people for their support and sympathy. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store remembered Harald for his love for his people, his humor, warmth, and unwavering faith in them. The monarch, who had been in hospital since August 17 due to haemolytic anaemia, would be laid to rest at the Royal Palace.

Thousands of Norwegians paid their respects, laying flowers, cards, cuddly toys, and Norwegian flags in tribute. The government declared a period of national mourning until Harald's funeral, which has yet to be set. Tributes poured in from world leaders, including France, Germany, India, Italy, Jordan, and Ukraine.