Prince Harry has reportedly expressed his willingness to support his family in the absence of Princess Katherine from Royal duties as she undergoes treatment.
Similarly, Harry's father, King Charles, is presently on extended leave due to his recent cancer diagnosis. However, the specific types of cancer affecting both the king and the Princess of Wales have not been disclosed. Harry purportedly sees this as an opportune moment to mend relationships within his family, particularly with Prince William. This comes after Harry's departure from Royal duties in 2020 and his relocation to the US with his wife, Megan Markle.
Despite Harry's offer to return, Palace aides have disclosed that his return has not been accepted. Although Harry informed the king of his willingness to step in and assist if needed, the aid stated that given the unresolved tension between them, his majesty cannot entertain the idea of welcoming him back. The aid further explained that Harry's return, being fifth in line for the throne, would only exacerbate the situation.
Last week, the palace seemed to underscore its stance on Harry by quietly removing his and Megan's individual bios from its official website. Instead, they were given a joint bio, clearly indicating their status as nonworking Royals. Additionally, bios for their children, Archie and Liet, were entirely removed from the site.
It's been suggested that Harry initially expressed his desire to return last month upon learning of King Charles's cancer diagnosis. However, according to the Mirror, Prince William dismissed the notion, stating to friends that it was highly unlikely to occur. Nonetheless, Harry made an urgent solo trip to the UK upon learning of King Charles's illness.
There have since been suggestions that Harry may assist his brother and share responsibilities while their father undergoes treatment. However, it's widely reported that William has no interest in speaking to or working with Harry and has told friends that he and Megan can't be trusted.
The Prince of Wales has reportedly held private meetings with his father in Sandringham, where the king is recuperating, and made his position clear. Whatever has been discussed between William and the king is private, but it's absolutely clear that he wouldn't allow Harry to return.
"If anyone's going to take on more duties, it'll be William," a source said. "And that isn't even on the agenda for now. His main focus is on his father's health, his family, and what's best for the monarchy. There's a 0% chance Harry's coming back in any capacity."
If Harry harbors any hopes of reconciling with his brother and sister-in-law during an expected return to the UK in May, he'll probably be disappointed. Harry's hoping to attend a service at St. Paul's Cathedral to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, but his travel plans have not yet been confirmed.
Having recently lost his legal battle with the government over his right to automatic police protection, he's unlikely to be joined by Megan or their children. The solo visit could, therefore, prove an opportune moment to build bridges with his brother, from whom he's been estranged for many months. However, such a development would require goodwill on both sides.
Sources close to the Wales suggest that with everything else the family's coping with, the Harry problem is the very last thing on their minds. They've made abundantly clear to their staff, the wider family, and the public that they need time and space to focus on each other and the princess's recovery.
"William has always done all he can to protect his family," a source said. "Now, more than ever, he's focused on ensuring her privacy and shielding their children. The very notion that they'd have the mental capacity to face Harry is roundly rejected by insiders who note that the couple now have far more significant concerns requiring their full attention. Trust in the Sussexes has been well and truly shattered. If there was a moment that they could envisage letting Harry back into the inner sanctum, now is not the time."
