Norways King Harald V Hospitalized for Second Time Amid Health Concerns

King Harald V of Norway has been admitted to hospital for a second time in recent weeks, according to the royal household. The 89-year-old monarch is currently undergoing treatment for his rare blood condition haemolytic anaemia.

The condition causes fatigue and shortness of breath due to a reduced number of red blood cells in the body.

Crown Prince Haakon has taken over his father's royal duties while he is on sick leave, and will serve as regent for the next two weeks.

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This is not the first time King Harald V has been hospitalized due to health issues. In 2024, he was fitted with a pacemaker after falling ill in Malaysia, and Queen Sonja was also admitted to hospital earlier this year for examinations and observation due to heart problems.

The king's health concerns come amid a tumultuous time for the Norwegian royals. Crown Princess Mette-Marit recently spoke out about her regret over exchanging emails with late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during their marriage.

King Harald V has been on the throne since January 1991 and has openly ruled out abdicating. Despite his health issues, he remains one of Europe's longest-serving monarchs.