A critical decision on Prince Harry's security arrangements in the United Kingdom is expected imminently, with the potential to dramatically alter the Duke of Sussex's relationship with his home country and his estranged family. The Home Office has ordered a full, fresh threat assessment – the first since 2020 – with the outcome due this January.
The Security Battle Reaches a Pivotal Moment
This review represents a major shift after Prince Harry lost his initial legal bid to have his automatic police protection reinstated. Currently, the Duke must provide the Metropolitan Police with a month's notice before any UK visit, with his security needs evaluated on a strictly case-by-case basis. His legal team has argued this ad-hoc system leaves his life "at stake."
The urgency of the matter was highlighted by an incident in September, where a known stalker came within yards of Harry at a London hotel, reportedly hiding in toilets shortly before his arrival. Sources close to the Duke are said to be "confident" the new assessment could lead to the restoration of his automatic security detail.
Royal Rifts and the William Factor
Should his security be guaranteed, speculation suggests Harry could spend considerably more time in Britain. Some observers have even floated the possibility of him assisting the slimmed-down monarchy with occasional royal duties. However, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond has poured cold water on this idea, pointing directly to his brother, the Prince of Wales.
"I don’t think that he will be taking on any royal duties here," Bond told the Mirror. "The decision was made that you cannot be half in and half out. Personally, I think that was pretty harsh." She added that allowing Harry back in any working capacity would be "a smack in the face to William," who has remained steadfastly loyal to the Crown.
Harry has himself linked the security issue to the deep rift within his family, stating it made it "impossible" to safely bring his wife, Meghan, and children Archie and Lilibet to the UK. He also claimed it hindered reconciliation with his father, King Charles III, whom he has said he is not on speaking terms with. The King has met his grandchildren only a handful of times.
Potential Outcomes and Public Sentiment
Jennie Bond views the potential reinstatement of security as a "vindication" for Harry, who publicly denounced the initial decision as a ‘good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up.’ She argues restoration is the correct move, citing his status as the King's son, fifth in line to the throne, and a former army officer who served in Afghanistan.
If the obstacle is removed, Bond believes Harry would likely bring his children to visit their heritage and grandfather. "I think most people would be glad to see our old King reunited with the son he called his 'darling boy' and with the grandchildren he barely knows," she said.
However, she is less convinced about Meghan's return, noting the Duchess appears "happy at home in California" and might be reluctant to face potential public hostility in Britain. The future, therefore, may see more solo visits from Harry, possibly with his children, but a full return to royal life appears firmly blocked, not by protocol alone, but by the enduring rift with his brother.
