The timing of this announcement seemed intentional, aiming to cause maximum emotional distress to Prince Harry. It coincided with his return to London to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. Royal expert Tom Quinn, speaking to The Mirror, expressed his views on the matter, stating that King Charles' announcement was a poignant blow to Prince Harry, who has often felt marginalized and underestimated within the royal family. According to Quinn, Prince Harry was devastated upon hearing the news. Compounding the situation, the honor was bestowed upon the very person whom Harry perceives as a source of many of his difficulties — his brother, Prince William.
Quinn asserted that the timing of the announcement was a deliberate choice, made while Prince Harry was in the UK, to convey the message that he was no longer welcome within the royal fold. The expert explained that the royal family had decided to remove the metaphorical gloves and underscore the consequences of betraying the family. By leaving his royal duties, Prince Harry not only relinquished the aspects he disliked but also lost the things he held dear. Quinn continued, emphasizing that Harry's ties to his previous life were rapidly eroding, leaving him adrift.
Both Prince William and Prince Harry have military backgrounds, with training as pilots. While Prince Harry served in the Army Air Corps during his second tour in Afghanistan, Prince William was involved in search and rescue missions as a pilot and air ambulance pilot, although he did not participate in active conflict. It was anticipated that Prince Harry would spend some time with his father, who is battling cancer, during his visit to the UK this week. However, the expected reunion did not occur. It remains uncertain whether Prince William's appointment as the Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps played a role in the decision.
Since stepping down as a senior member of the royal family in 2020, Prince Harry has experienced a strained relationship with both his father and his brother. Previously known for his close bond with Prince William and his sister-in-law, Princess Kate, Prince Harry did not have the opportunity to see them during his brief return to the UK this week. Additionally, he was unable to visit his sister-in-law, who is currently battling cancer.
Prince Harry now resides in Montoo, California with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children, occupying the fifth position in the line of succession to the throne.
