King Harald V Hospitalised with Rare Blood Condition, Crown Prince Regents

King Harald V of Norway has been hospitalised in Oslo with an infection, necessitating his current sick leave. The 87-year-old monarch, who is Europe's longest-serving head of state, will have Crown Prince Haakon step in as regent, undertaking his father's constitutional duties during this period.

This latest hospitalisation follows a series of health concerns for King Harald V. In January, he underwent a permanent pacemaker implantation in Malaysia after falling ill during a private trip. Prior to that, in December, he was admitted to hospital with another infection. His health has been a recurring issue, with previous treatments for cancer, heart valve surgery, and several respiratory infections.

The Royal Household has provided limited details regarding the nature of the current infection. King Harald V has consistently expressed his commitment to his role, dismissing speculation about abdication, a decision made by his second cousin, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, earlier this year.