Prince Harry and King Charles' feud deepens over security dispute

Prince Harry and King Charles III’s relationship has hit a new low amid an ongoing dispute over security. Recent reports reveal that their communication has soured significantly, with Harry’s calls reportedly going unanswered by the King.

The tension between father and son, which initially became public in 2020 when Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from royal duties, has escalated over issues surrounding the Duke of Sussex's security. Sources close to Harry suggest that his father, despite his royal position, has not responded to Harry’s attempts to discuss the matter.

Harry's recent visit to the U.K. in May, which was meant to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, saw King Charles notably absent. The official explanation was the King’s “full schedule,” but insiders hint at deeper issues.

Harry sought to address his ongoing legal battle for security, an issue he has been pursuing in court for over four years. Harry believes that King Charles could influence the situation, although Buckingham Palace denies that the King has any control over security arrangements.

The rift between Harry and Charles became more pronounced after a February meeting that followed the King's cancer diagnosis. Despite a positive initial encounter, communication between them has since deteriorated, with Harry's attempts to reach out reportedly met with silence.

A friend of Harry’s described the situation, saying, “He gets ‘unavailable right now’ messages. His calls go unanswered, including those concerning the King’s health.” The Duke of Sussex has expressed deep concern for the safety of his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Harry has publicly voiced fears that negative press could incite violence against his family, reinforcing his requests for enhanced protection.

The dispute over security has led Harry to legal battles, including a failed attempt earlier this year to restore his taxpayer-funded protection. The Duke had even offered to personally cover the cost of police protection, which was rejected in court.

He contends that Charles should intervene, but the palace disputes this, stating that security decisions are made by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC), not directly by the monarch.

Sources close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex say that Charles’ fear of a repeat of Princess Diana's post-royal prominence may be influencing his decisions. Diana’s departure from royal life led to global attention and overshadowed the monarchy’s activities, a scenario Charles may want to avoid.

As the family feud continues, Harry's hopes for reconciliation seem distant. The ongoing estrangement highlights a complex mix of personal grievances and public concerns, underscoring the deepening divide between the Duke of Sussex and the British royal family.