Norway's royal family gathers at King Harald's bedside as his condition worsens
King Harald V of Norway is in critical condition at an Oslo hospital while being treated for haemolytic anaemia. The royal family has gathered at his bedside, and Crown Prince Haakon has assumed regent duties.
Why it matters
As Europe's oldest head of state, the King's health crisis represents a significant moment of transition and concern for the Norwegian monarchy.
Image source, EPA Image caption, Members of Norway's royal family, including King Harald's son, Crown Prince Haakon, have gathered at the hospital
King Harald V of Norway is in an "extremely serious" condition in hospital, the country's royal household has said.
His wife, Queen Sonja, and his son, Crown Prince Haakon, have cancelled all royal engagements and they have gathered at his bedside at Oslo University Hospital with other members of the royal family.
The 89-year-old has been in hospital for over a week receiving treatment for a rare blood condition, haemolytic anaemia.
Having been on the throne since 1991, King Harald is Europe's oldest head of state.
Crown Prince Haakon, 53, the successor to the Norwegian throne, has been serving as regent while his father is on leave.
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