King Harald admitted to hospital; Crown Prince Haakon appointed regent

King Harald of Norway, 89, was admitted to Rikshospitalet in Oslo on 17 August 2026 after doctors grew concerned about fluid retention caused by cortisone treating his hemolytic anemia — a condition destroying red blood cells faster than they are replaced. The court announced two weeks' sick leave. Crown Prince Haakon was appointed regent, assuming head-of-state duties until further notice.