Norway monarch hospitalised, Crown Prince becomes Regent

August 17, 2026 6:25 pm

Norway’s King Harald V has been admitted to hospital after a medical examination, with Crown Prince Haakon taking over as Regent for two weeks, the Royal House has said.

According to GB News, the 89-year-old monarch was admitted to the National Hospital on Monday after a medical examination, according to a statement from the Royal House.

The statement said Harald had been “treated with cortisone for the blood disease hemolytic anemia in recent weeks,” which had led to “fluid accumulation in the body that requires treatment in hospital.”

“The King is on sick leave for two weeks,” the Royal House said, adding that “His Royal Highness the Crown Prince is Regent during this period.”

The Royal House said it would provide further information on the consequences of the hospitalisation for the royal household’s official programme.

It is the second time Harald has been in hospital this month, according to the report.

The monarch had visited hospital 10 days earlier for what the Royal House described as a “planned checkup and follow-up with a doctor,” adding that he had been driven there in his own car.

Tosin Oyediran

Tosin Oyediran is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of professional experience in reporting and storytelling. He is known for conducting incisive interviews and producing compelling human-angle stories that bring clarity and depth to the news. Tosin covers a broad range of beats including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment, with a strong focus on people-centred reporting. His work reflects firsthand newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to accurate, engaging, and trustworthy journalism.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]