Norway’s King Harald V, 89, has been hospitalized in Oslo for treatment related to hemolytic anemia, the Norwegian Royal Palace announced. The monarch was admitted to the National Hospital on Monday following a medical examination.
The palace said Harald has been receiving cortisone treatment for the blood disorder in recent weeks. The treatment has caused fluid to accumulate in his body, requiring hospital care.
King Harald has been placed on sick leave for two weeks, during which his son and heir, Crown Prince Haakon, will serve as regent and carry out the monarch’s constitutional duties.
The hospitalization is the latest in a series of health-related setbacks for the Norwegian monarch. Harald has undergone several treatments and hospital stays in recent years, including treatment for infections and the implantation of a permanent pacemaker following a health emergency in 2024.
Despite his recent health challenges, Harald has repeatedly indicated that he does not intend to abdicate. He has previously said that the oath he made to Norway’s parliament is a lifelong commitment.
The Royal Palace has not provided a specific date for the king’s discharge or detailed how the hospitalization will affect his upcoming official schedule.
Crown Prince Haakon’s temporary role as regent does not constitute a change in the succession. King Harald remains Norway’s monarch while receiving treatment.
Swifteradio.com
