Norwegians mourn King Harald as son succeeds to throne

King Harald of Norway passed away at the age of 89, after nearly three and a half decades on the throne. His 53-year-old son, Haakon VIII, immediately ascended to the throne, taking the name Haakon VIII. Haakon was accompanied by his 22-year-old daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, who will become the new Crown Princess.

The monarchy, known for its modernity and modesty, faced several scandals in recent years. Haakon arrived at the Palace Square in Oslo, where thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects. They laid flowers, cards, and stuffed toys, and some hugged and held each other in grief.

In a statement, Haakon thanked the government and Norwegian people for their support and sympathy. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store praised King Harald, saying he was a king of his time who accompanied Norway through periods of immense change. He noted Harald's love for his people, his humor, warmth, and unwavering faith in the Norwegian people.

Harald had been hospitalized since August 17 due to haemolytic anaemia, a condition caused by the rapid destruction of red blood cells. His coffin was brought to the Royal Palace, where the public could view it in the palace's chapel. Public mourning officially began until the king's funeral, whose date is yet to be set.

Tributes poured in from world leaders, including France, Germany, India, Italy, Jordan, Ukraine, and the royal houses of Europe. Britain's King Charles III expressed profound sadness at losing his dear cousin. Harald played a significant role in uniting the people and bringing a sense of security, especially after the 2011 neo-Nazi attacks that claimed 77 lives.