Despite many claims over the last year—since King Charles’ can:cer diagnosis—that Prince Harry wishes to reconcile with his father, it is evident that the monarch’s younger son is not actively pursuing that goal. This was reinforced by his latest action, which many saw as insulting to the late Queen Elizabeth’s son.
King Charles extended an offer to Harry, which many interpreted as an attempt to restore their relationship.
Harry, on the other hand, turned it down in a really rude manner. A new court struggle, instigated by Harry, is expected to commence in London this week. The prince is suing News Group Newspapers, which owns the popular tabloid, accusing them of illegally obtaining details about his personal life.
To support his case, Harry was supposed to testify in court, which would require him to travel to London from California, where he has lived since retiring from royal duties in 2020. To accommodate him, King Charles graciously invited Harry to stay in Buckingham Palace during his visit to the UK. Instead of saying thank you, Harry declined the offer.
He also proclaimed that he would not be in London this week. He plans to testify at a later date, most likely in February, as the trial is slated to take at least seven weeks.
His decision was motivated by his continuous battle to obtain 24/7 police protection, which he believes he is entitled to as a member of the royal family.
Harry lost a judicial lawsuit last April in which he attempted to obtain this protection, but he has since appealed the verdict, which will be reviewed this spring.
Rejecting King Charles’ offer was largely regarded as a poor decision, as living inside the palace would have ensured him the security he was fighting for in court. However, Harry appeared to imply that he does not want “handouts” and must have everything “by legal right.”
Jenny Bond, a royal specialist, said: “I think this is a big mistake because if he had stayed at the palace, he would have automatically been provided with round-the-clock police protection.”
