The News
Prince Harry’s Urgent Return for Prince Philip’s Funeral Amid Family Tensions
In a heartfelt response to the passing of his grandfather, Prince Harry is making swift plans to fly back to Britain for Prince Philip's funeral.
This journey marks Harry's first return home since he and Meghan stepped back from royal duties and settled in California about a year ago.
It's also a significant moment as it will be his first face-to-face interaction with his family following the explosive revelations made during his and Meghan's interview with Oprah Winfrey just last month.
While Harry prepares for his trip, Meghan is expected to remain in California.
The couple is anticipating the arrival of their second child, due in early summer, which makes travel impractical for her at this time.
Sources close to the Duke of Sussex indicate that he feels a strong sense of unity with his family as they collectively mourn the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh.
Reports confirm that Harry reached out to several family members, including his father, Prince Charles, to discuss his travel plans.
He is eager to be with his family during this trying time, and conversations with cousins Beatrice and Eugenie have already taken place.
Insiders reveal that Harry expressed his desire to return home as arrangements are being made.
Last month, while Philip was hospitalized recovering from an infection and heart surgery, Harry opted to stay isolated in his California home.
At that time, he had even arranged for a private jet to be on standby should he decide to make the trip back.
The Duke of Edinburgh had been shielded from the details surrounding the Sussexes' controversial interview, which included serious allegations against a senior royal family member.
The fallout from that interview has undoubtedly added complexity to Harry's return.
Royal insiders suggest that Prince Philip would have been upset by Harry's decision to participate in such a public discussion, especially given the turmoil it caused within the family.
Philip had previously expressed discontent when Princess Diana revealed intimate family matters during her own infamous BBC Panorama interview in 1995.
As Harry navigates his return, he must also consider current travel protocols.
Mourners traveling from outside England are required to self-isolate for ten days upon arrival.
However, Harry may be granted an exemption on compassionate grounds to attend the funeral.
There are also provisions allowing him to exit quarantine if he tests negative on day five under the test-to-release scheme.
Given Harry's royal status and the nature of his visit, it's likely that he will receive special consideration regarding travel restrictions.
This funeral will not only serve as a farewell to Prince Philip but also as a moment for the royal family to come together in mourning.
The Queen, alongside her children and grandchildren, is expected to enter a period of mourning that could span several weeks.