The recent official resignation of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from their roles as honorary members of the British royal family has stirred emotions within the monarchy, particularly impacting the relationship between the two brothers, Prince William and Prince Harry.
Prince William, the elder brother, has reportedly expressed deep dissatisfaction with Harry's decision and the manner in which it was communicated. According to British media reports, William finds Harry's behavior "insulting and disrespectful," particularly towards Queen Elizabeth II. An article in The Sunday Times emphasized that responding to the queen in such a manner is viewed as inappropriate and has left the Duke of Cambridge truly saddened and genuinely shocked.
Friends close to both princes have indicated that, despite the recent events, there is a belief that William and Harry are open to healing their fractured relationship. One friend of William shared, "It's still fresh. He is very upset by what has happened, although he fully intends for the relationship between him and Harry to heal over time."
The decision by Harry and Meghan to make their resignation from British royalty permanent comes a year after the initial announcement of their step back, commonly referred to as "Megxit." Buckingham Palace, in conjunction with the Sussexes, issued statements confirming the permanence of this decision, signaling the end of honorary military appointments and royal patronages held by the couple.
Buckingham Palace stated, "The decision means that honorary military appointments and royal patronages held by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be revoked and redistributed to working members of the royal family." The Queen also sent a letter confirming that stepping away from the work of the Royal Family makes it impossible to continue with the responsibilities and duties associated with a life of public service. Despite this, she acknowledged that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain much-loved members of the family.
In response, Harry and Meghan affirmed their commitment to duty and service, expressing their continued support to the organizations they have represented, irrespective of their official roles. The couple stated, "We can all live a life of service. Service is universal." Despite the permanent resignation, Harry and Meghan will retain their titles as Duke and Duchess of Sussex, with Harry remaining sixth in line to the British throne. However, he will lose military patronages, a significant aspect given his prior service in the British Army and involvement in veterans' charities.
