Norway is observing a period of national mourning after the death of King Harald V, who passed away at the age of 89 on Friday morning. The monarch, who reigned for 35 years, died at 06:35 local time at Rikshospitalet following treatment for a rare blood condition. His coffin was transported to the royal palace in a public procession, where an estimated 10,000 people gathered to pay their respects.

Following the announcement, King Haakon VIII, 53, held an extraordinary council of state meeting. The new monarch pledged to uphold the royal family's motto, "All for Norway." Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed the nation's collective sorrow, stating that the country was "united in grief and gratitude." Tributes have arrived from international leaders, including King Charles III, and public figures such as footballer Erling Haaland.

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The late King Harald was widely regarded for his efforts to modernize the monarchy, earning a reputation as an inclusive and empathetic leader. As the nation prepares for his funeral, the King will lie in state at the palace chapel. During this mourning period, flags across Norway are flying at half-mast, and many social events have been cancelled or postponed.

King Haakon VIII, who is married to Queen Mette-Marit, is scheduled to take an oath before the Norwegian parliament on Tuesday, followed by a consecration service. His daughter, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, is now first in line to the throne. The transition comes during a challenging period for the royal family, which has recently navigated health issues and legal controversies involving members of the extended family. Despite a recent decline in public support for the monarchy, royal experts suggest the new King remains a respected figure capable of navigating these complexities.

Source: BBC News