King Harald V of Norway is in "extremely serious" condition at Oslo University Hospital, according to a statement from the Norwegian royal household. The 89-year-old monarch has been hospitalized for more than a week to receive treatment for hemolytic anemia, a rare blood condition. In response to the king's worsening health, members of the royal family, including Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon, have canceled all scheduled engagements to remain at the hospital.
King Harald, who has occupied the throne since 1991, is currently the oldest head of state in Europe. The royal household reported that he has been treated with cortisone for his blood condition, which causes a reduction in red blood cells and results in symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. This hospitalization follows a series of health issues for the monarch, including the installation of a permanent pacemaker in 2024 after he became ill during a trip to Malaysia.
Crown Prince Haakon, age 53, is currently serving as regent while his father is on medical leave. On Thursday morning, the Crown Prince was seen arriving at the hospital alongside Crown Princess Mette-Marit. Princess Astrid, the king’s sister, is also reported to be at the facility. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled a planned meeting in Germany with Chancellor Friedrich Merz to remain in the country, stating that the nation’s thoughts are with the royal family.
The situation also impacts the broader royal family, which has managed several significant personal and health challenges throughout 2026. In June, Crown Princess Mette-Marit underwent a lung transplant related to a 2018 diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. Additionally, her son, Marius Borg Høiby, was recently sentenced to four years in prison for two counts of rape, a conviction he plans to appeal. The king's current medical crisis adds to this period of instability for the household, which also recently addressed public scrutiny regarding the Crown Princess’s past social contact with Jeffrey Epstein.
For the Norwegian public, the king’s condition has led to visible displays of national concern, including the placement of flowers at Palace Square in Oslo. The outcome of his treatment for hemolytic anemia will determine whether the current regency becomes a permanent succession. If the king is unable to resume his duties, Crown Prince Haakon would formally ascend to the throne. Further updates on the king’s health status are expected from the royal household as his treatment continues at Oslo University Hospital.