Norway's King Harald V dies at 89

Norwegians are mourning the passing of King Harald V, who at 87 had been Europe’s oldest reigning monarch. The king died peacefully at the Royal Palace in Oslo on Thursday, ending a reign that began in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V. Harald’s tenure of more than three decades was marked by a steady presence in Norway’s constitutional monarchy, extensive diplomatic engagements across Europe, and a reputation for fostering national unity through both ceremonial duties and personal outreach.

The throne now passes to Crown Prince Haakon, who will be crowned as King Haakon VII. Government officials have announced a period of national mourning, with flags lowered to half‑mast and a state funeral scheduled for next week. The royal family, along with political leaders and citizens, are expected to pay tribute to Harald’s legacy of service and his role in modernizing the Norwegian monarchy while preserving its traditions.