King Harald V of Norway Passes Away at Age 89

King Harald of Norway, who sat on the Norwegian throne for over thirty years and was Europe's oldest reigning monarch, has passed away at Oslo University Hospital at the age of 89. Following the king's death, the crown prince has ascended to the throne.

He Was Receiving Treatment in the Hospital

King Harald of Norway, who was hospitalized on August 17 due to a bacterial infection detected in his blood, breathed his last at the Oslo University Hospital where he was receiving treatment.

Announced by the Palace

In an official statement released by the royal palace, it was announced to the public that the monarch passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28 at 06:35 local time.

His Thirty-Year Reign

Ascending to the throne in 1991, King Harald brought the symbolic office, which serves as a symbol of national independence, into the 21st century with modern touches.

He Had Not Abandonded the Throne

Struggling with health issues in recent years, King Harald had rejected suggestions to step down, stating that his commitment to the position was lifelong.

Haakon Becomes the New King

Following the monarch's death, his 53-year-old son, Crown Prince Haakon, automatically became the new king of Norway without the need for any coronation ceremony.

Messages of Condolence from Around the World and the Country

Following the death of King Harald, numerous messages of condolence were published internationally. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store stated that the entire nation is in mourning.

King Charles of the United Kingdom also conveyed his deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of King Harald, whom he described as his cousin.