King Harald in critical condition, royal family engagements canceled

2026-08-27 13:01:00 / BOTA ALFA PRESS

King Harald in critical condition, royal family engagements canceled

Norway's 89-year-old King Harald is in an "extremely serious" condition after his health deteriorated during hospital treatment for a blood disorder.

The Norwegian Royal Palace announced the news on Thursday in a brief statement, saying: “The health condition of His Majesty the King is extremely serious.” The palace did not provide further details about the monarch’s condition.

Meanwhile, Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon, who has taken over as regent during his father's illness, have canceled all official engagements. Norwegian media reports that members of the king's family are with him in the hospital.


Harald is receiving treatment at Oslo University Hospital, where he has been hospitalized since August 17 due to hemolytic anemia. This is a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them.

The king was initially taken to hospital after suffering fluid retention, which was linked to cortisone treatment. In recent years, Harald has faced a number of health problems, including the installation of a pacemaker.

Harald has been on the throne since 1991. Although he has reduced his official engagements due to health problems, he has repeatedly ruled out the possibility of abdication.

The King has stated that the oath he took before the Norwegian Parliament constitutes an obligation that he intends to keep throughout his life.

Po ndodh...