Norway's King Harald V dies at 89; Crown Prince Haakon succeeds him

Norway's King Harald V passed away on Friday at the age of 89, marking the end of a long reign and ushering in a new era for the Norwegian monarchy. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, automatically succeeded him on the throne, becoming Norway's new king.

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It is with deep sadness that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today.

The palace announced the King's death with "deep sadness," stating that King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital. The flag at the royal palace in Oslo was lowered to half-mast as news spread, drawing crowds of mourners who gathered to pay their respects.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store described the loss as a moment of "deep sorrow" for the entire nation. He added that Norway mourns but remains "profoundly grateful for a long life devoted to Norway." The Prime Minister announced that the government would convene shortly to meet the new King Haakon.

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An entire nation mourns, and at the same time remains profoundly grateful for a long life devoted to Norway.

King Harald, Europe's oldest reigning monarch, had been hospitalized since August 17, suffering from haemolytic anaemia. The royal family had gathered at his bedside as his condition was described as "extremely serious." The King had faced multiple health issues in recent years, including requiring a pacemaker and scaling back his official duties, but had consistently ruled out abdication, citing his lifelong oath.

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King Harald loved Norway. And Norway loved its king.

The past year has presented challenges for the royal family, including the King's hospitalization for an infection earlier in the year and Queen Sonja's brief hospital admission. Crown Prince Haakon's wife, Mette-Marit, has also faced scrutiny over past correspondence with the late Jeffrey Epstein.

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Of course it's sad. He's a symbol of our country. And naturally, it's sad when something so beautiful comes to an end.