**King of Norway's Health Declines, Remains Hospitalized**
Oslo, Norway - The health of King Harald V of Norway has deteriorated, according to a statement from the royal palace. The 89-year-old monarch is currently hospitalized at Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, where he is receiving antibiotics for a bloodstream bacterial infection.
Despite the worsening of his condition, the palace has confirmed that King Harald is responding to treatment. However, he will continue to remain in the hospital and is on leave from his royal duties until further notice. The king was admitted to the hospital a week ago and has been under medical care since.
King Harald has been managing health issues for some time. Recently, he was treated with cortisone for a rare blood condition known as hemolytic anemia, which reduces the number of red blood cells in the body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath. His health challenges have prompted discussions about his public engagements, and in April 2024, the royal household announced that he would be making a "permanent reduction" in his public appearances in light of his age and health.
King Harald has been on the throne since 1991, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in Europe. During his absence, Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has taken on the role of regent, stepping in to fulfill the king's responsibilities.
The Norwegian royal family has faced a particularly challenging year. Earlier in 2026, Crown Princess Mette-Marit underwent a lung transplant after being diagnosed with a rare form of pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. This medical procedure occurred shortly after her son, Marius Borg Høiby, was sentenced to four years in prison for two counts of rape, a conviction he is appealing. Høiby, who is not a royal figure, has been in the public eye due to his mother's royal connections.
In addition to these personal challenges, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has also been under scrutiny following the release of documents detailing her past friendship with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. She publicly apologized to King Harald and Queen Sonja for her association with Epstein, admitting to "poor judgment" and expressing regret over the relationship during a national television interview.
As the royal family navigates these health and legal issues, the nation watches closely, hoping for the king's recovery and the continued stability of the monarchy. The palace has not provided a timeline for King Harald's expected return to royal duties, but updates on his health will likely be communicated as they become available.