King Harald V of Norway has died peacefully at the age of 89, ending his 35-year reign. The Royal Palace confirmed his death at Rikshospitalet in Oslo as Norway lowered flags to half-mast.

His son, Crown Prince Haakon, immediately became King Haakon VIII, beginning a new era for the Norwegian monarchy. Harald was widely respected as a unifying national figure, particularly after the 2011 terrorist attacks and through his famous speeches promoting unity and inclusion.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said: “A whole nation is in mourning. King Harald loved Norway, and Norway loved its King.”