NORWAY’S KING HARALD V IN EXTREMELY SERIOUS CONDITION AS ROYALS CANCEL ENGAGEMENTS

Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald V is in an extremely serious condition after his health deteriorated while receiving treatment at a hospital in Oslo, the Norwegian Royal House has announced.

The monarch has been receiving treatment at Oslo University Hospital since August 17 after developing complications linked to haemolytic anaemia, a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them.

The Royal House issued a fresh health update on Thursday, stating that the King’s condition had become extremely serious. No further details about his prognosis were provided.

The latest development comes only days after the palace reported that Harald’s health had deteriorated over the weekend. At the time, he was also being treated with antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his bloodstream and had responded to the treatment.

The worsening situation has prompted members of the Norwegian royal family to adjust their schedules. Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon have cancelled their planned engagements, while several members of the royal family have reportedly visited the King at the hospital.

Crown Prince Haakon, the King’s only son and heir, is currently serving as regent while his father remains unable to carry out his official responsibilities.

King Harald has experienced several health challenges in recent years, including previous hospitalisations and the fitting of a pacemaker. Despite his declining health, he has continued to carry out royal duties when his condition permitted.

Harald became King of Norway in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V. He is currently Europe’s oldest reigning monarch.

The Norwegian monarch has previously ruled out abdication, saying that the oath he made to Norway’s parliament upon becoming king was intended to last for life.

As the royal family gathers around the King, Norway remains closely watching developments concerning his condition, with the palace expected to provide further updates when necessary.