Prince Harry is facing growing criticism after his fiery BBC interview, in which he lashed out at both the UK establishment and his family, following a recent court ruling.
On Friday, the Court of Appeal dismissed Harry’s bid to restore his 24/7 police protection while in the UK, a decision that sparked a wave of anger from the Duke.
Harry didn’t hold back, calling the ruling an “Establishment stitch-up” during his interview.
He also made it clear that he planned to write to the Home Secretary, urging her to reassess the matter and the process surrounding the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec).
Public Reactions and Criticism from Senior Politicians
The backlash was swift. Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Philp, wasted no time in dismissing Harry’s request, telling the Mail that the prince was simply “paying the price” for stepping away from his royal duties.
“This is the price the entitled prince has to pay for choosing to walk away from public duty,” Philp stated.
However, it wasn’t just politicians weighing in. Palace insiders were equally vocal.
One palace source told The Telegraph that Harry was completely “out of touch with reality” and “doesn’t get the message.”
The source added that King Charles had been avoiding his son’s attempts to make contact for years.
Harry’s recent actions, including this public interview, were seen as a desperate move on his part.
Harry’s Continuing Struggles with His Family
Since stepping down from official duties in 2020, Harry and his wife Meghan have lived in California and no longer receive the security privileges that come with being senior royals.
A ruling from February 2024 confirmed that this decision was legally sound, and Harry’s recent attempt to challenge it was shot down just days ago.
In his interview, Harry said he would likely “never forgive” the decision made in 2020, especially as it puts his family at risk.
“I can only come back to the UK if I’m invited,” he said, adding that he believed the King should step aside and let experts handle security matters for him.
Tensions Between Harry and Other Royals
Despite his public grievances, Harry still expressed a desire for reconciliation with his father, though he admitted that King Charles had refused to speak to him.
“I would love a reconciliation,” Harry said. “My father won’t speak to me,” he added, reflecting the deep rift in their relationship.
Harry also acknowledged the tension between him and his brother, Prince William, stating that there had been “so many disagreements.”
While he claimed to have forgiven William, Harry expressed doubt about ever bringing his wife and children back to the UK under the current circumstances.
Royal Commentators Speak Out
Harry’s remarks regarding his father’s health and his strained relationship with the royals have raised concerns among commentators.
Joe Little, managing editor of Majesty Magazine, described Harry’s comments as “quite alarming.”
He pointed out the mixed messages Harry seemed to be sending, suggesting that despite his admission of not speaking to his father for some time, he was implying that King Charles might not be as well as the public has been led to believe.
Meghan’s Response and the Royal Family’s Focus
Hours after Harry’s interview aired, Meghan posted a black-and-white photo of Harry holding their son Archie’s hand while carrying daughter Lilibet on his shoulders, seemingly as a response to his comments about not returning to the UK.
Meanwhile, the Royal Family has been focusing on other events.
The family is gearing up for the 80th anniversary of VE Day, which will be marked with a series of events in London.
Thousands are expected to attend the ceremonies, which will include a military procession and a flypast by the Red Arrows.
The Royals are also preparing to honor the wartime generation whose sacrifices should serve as an enduring example of devotion and service.
Palace Aides React to Harry’s Media Campaign
Behind the scenes, Buckingham Palace aides have been critical of Harry’s public campaign.
While the Duke has long criticized the media, he continues to use it as a platform to air his grievances, including disparaging remarks about his father and the royal institution.
A senior palace source remarked on the irony of Harry’s actions, noting that his media interviews, which often criticize the Royals, were being conducted on the same platform he once condemned.
Despite Harry’s ongoing efforts to push for change through public channels, the Royal Family remains focused on their duties and the important commemoration of VE Day.
