Norway's King Harald V dies at age 89
Norway's King Harald V has passed away at 89 following hospitalization in Oslo. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, succeeds him as monarch.
Norway's King Harald V died on Friday at the age of 89 at Rikshospitalet in Oslo, the royal palace confirmed. His passing followed medical care for a rare blood condition, hemolytic anemia, and a bloodstream infection.
King Harald took the throne in January 1991 and ruled for 35 years under the national motto "All for Norway". During his reign, he became Europe's oldest sovereign. His son, former Crown Prince Haakon, has succeeded him as monarch.
Monarchs and leaders across Europe expressed grief following the announcement, including Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf, who offered condolences for his close friend. Crowds in Oslo assembled near the palace to place flowers as the royal flag was lowered to half-mast.
Sources: BBC News, Berlingske, France24, ORF, The Local Sweden
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Earlier coverage
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