King Harald V of Norway died on Friday at the age of 89, the Royal Palace announced. Europe’s oldest monarch died peacefully at a hospital in Oslo after being admitted on 17 August for treatment of a bacterial infection in his blood.

Harald, who had served as Norway’s ceremonial head of state since 1991, refused to abdicate despite longstanding health problems. In 2024, he announced that he would reduce his official duties but emphasized that his royal oath was for life.

During more than three decades on the throne, Harald remained highly popular. He gradually modernized the monarchy and brought it closer to the public, championed tolerance and played a prominent role at times of national tragedy. Following Anders Breivik’s 2011 terrorist attacks, which killed 77 people, he addressed the nation in an emotional televised speech.

Harald also broke with tradition by marrying Sonja Haraldsen. His father opposed their relationship for nine years, and Harald eventually threatened that if he could not marry Sonja, he would not marry anyone.

His death comes at a difficult time for the Norwegian royal family, which has been beset by scandals and health problems. His 53-year-old son Haakon becomes the new king, the fourth Norwegian monarch since the country gained independence from Sweden in 1905.

(Reuters, Max)