Norway's King Harald V, Europe's oldest reigning monarch, is in very serious condition in an Oslo hospital. The royal court announced on Thursday that the 89-year-old's health has deteriorated, with palace officials describing his status as extremely serious.
The King has been hospitalized since August 17, battling a blood disorder characterized by the abnormally rapid destruction of red blood cells. Reports indicate he has been struggling with a blood disease and infection for several weeks.
The royal family has gathered at the monarch's bedside. As senior royals cancel their engagements, hundreds of people have gathered outside the palace in response to the news that the King is seriously ill.