Monarch departs for Italy as Duke of Sussex returns for legal battle over security
Harry’s return to the United Kingdom for a crucial legal hearing has reportedly been met with another disappointment, as King Charles left the country just before his arrival.
The Duke of Sussex travelled to London to attend his appeal against a High Court ruling regarding his police protection. However, any chance of a reunion with his father was dashed as the King embarked on a four-day state visit to Italy alongside Queen Camilla.
The two haven’t seen each other since February 2024, and while a brief meeting might have been possible, royal sources suggest the monarch had no intention of seeing his younger son. The King’s travel plans were confirmed weeks in advance, though some observers believe the timing may have been deliberate.
Speculation continues that the monarch chose to avoid Harry amid the Duke's legal action against the Home Office. During court proceedings, Harry argued that his family does not feel safe in the UK without proper police protection—a right he lost after stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
The case underscores the lasting impact of Harry’s decision to leave his working royal role, while the King's latest move signals the deepening distance between father and son.
Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla have now arrived in Rome for a significant diplomatic visit aimed at strengthening ties between the UK and Italy.
