Norway’s King Harald V dies, succeeded by son

King Harald V of Norway, Europe's oldest reigning monarch, has passed away at age 89. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, will succeed him as King Haakon VIII.
Why it matters
The death marks the end of a 35-year reign that saw Norway experience significant oil-fueled prosperity and social change.
Harald V, who was Europe’s oldest reigning monarch, has died at the age of 89. His son will reign as King Haakon VIII.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info King Harald V of Norway has died following a stint in hospital. He will be succeeded by his son, King Haakon VIII [File: Johannes Eisele/Reuters] By Al Jazeera Staff and AP Published On 28 Aug 2026 28 Aug 2026 Norway’s King Harald V has died at the age of 89, after being hospitalised with a rare blood condition.
The death of Europe’s oldest reigning monarch was announced on Friday by the Royal Palace of Norway.
“King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on Friday, Aug 28 at 6:35 a.m,” the palace said in a statement.
His son, Crown Prince Haakon, automatically succeeds him and is expected to reign as King Haakon VIII.
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