Norway’s King Harald V Hospitalised; Crown Prince Takes Over
The 89‑year‑old king of Norway was admitted to hospital and placed on sick leave for 14 days, the palace announced on Monday. The monarch is being treated for fluid retention linked to haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood condition that reduces red‑cell counts and can cause fatigue and shortness of breath.
Crown Prince Haakon, 53, will act as regent during the monarch’s absence. He will perform all royal duties and advise the king on matters of state.
Harald has faced a number of health challenges in recent years – a pacemaker was fitted after a heart attack in Malaysia, and he once required treatment on the Spanish island of Tenerife for infection and dehydration. Queen Sonja was also in hospital early this year.
The king’s infirmity comes amid a period of scrutiny for the Norwegian royal family, following revelations that Crown Princess Mette‑Marit had exchanged extensive emails with U.S. financier Jeffrey Epstein and the subsequent conviction of her son in 2024 for rape.
The palace confirmed the recent admission after a flare‑up of fluid retention that required inpatient care, and assured the public that the king is receiving the best medical care available.
