Prince Harry, King Charles clash over Buckingham Palace stay

An "awkward stand-off" over accommodation at Buckingham Palace has once again exposed the strained relationship between Prince Harry and his father, King Charles III. The Duke of Sussex, who is visiting the United Kingdom this week, had considered bringing his wife Meghan and their two children.

Prince Harry, residing in California since 2020, has expressed concerns about security in Britain, as he is no longer a working royal and not entitled to taxpayer-funded police protection. His request for such protection during this visit was reportedly denied. However, the King had offered the Duke and his family accommodation at Buckingham Palace, intended to provide a secure base.

Buckingham Palace claims that despite repeated requests for clarity, no formal response was received by a deadline. The palace asserts that the Duke and his team indicated the accommodation was unsuitable and formally declined the offer on Saturday. Later that day, a belated request from the Duke to stay was reportedly received, but by then, the necessary arrangements were no longer available.

A spokesperson for Prince Harry presented a different account to the BBC, stating the Duke was under the impression he had accepted the offer, only for it to be withdrawn. This withdrawal, described as "disappointing," has led to confusion. "It is therefore unclear why, having formally accepted the accommodation offer, it has now been withdrawn at the last moment," the spokesperson said.

This dispute underscores the deep rift between King Charles III and his youngest son, which has been evident since the Sussexes stepped back from royal duties in 2020. Past events, including the couple's interview with Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry's autobiography, have further complicated their relationship. Meghan has not traveled to the UK with her husband since Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022, and it is understood that Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, have not spoken since then.

“

It is therefore unclear why, having formally accepted the accommodation offer, it has now been withdrawn at the last moment.