Prince Harry 'deeply shocked' by King Charles' 'blunt refusal' to meet him in UK

Prince Harry was reportedly left reeling after his father, King Charles, declined a meeting during his recent UK visit, a situation that has been described as "particularly painful" because "everyone knows the real reason".

A royal commentator and author weighed in on the matter, indicating that the snub dealt a significant emotional blow to the Duke of Sussex. Harry had returned to London for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, perhaps expecting a warmer reception from his father, especially following their previous reconciliation after the King's cancer diagnosis.

However, hopes for a touching reunion were dashed.

Prince Harry's representatives addressed the speculation head-on with a statement: "In response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not the duke will meet with his father while in the UK this week, it unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty's full program.

"The duke, of course, is understanding of his father's diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon."

Royal expert and author Tom Quinn told the Mirror that Prince Harry feels deeply hurt by his father's overt rejection, particularly given the anticipation of their meeting during his trip to London.

Mr Quinn revealed: "He was deeply shocked at his father's blunt refusal to see him even for a moment. This time the rejection was particularly painful because it was so public - Harry may have issued a statement saying he completely understood why his father didn't have time to see him, but everyone knows the real reason had nothing to do with busy schedules."

The Sussexes were approached for comment.

Harry found himself residing in a hotel during his three-day stay in London after being denied access to Royal Family residences. The Times reports that Harry, now a father of two, made an advanced "request" to see his father in line with 28 days' notice requirement as per Royal protocol.

Sources from Buckingham Palace claimed that Harry "changed his mind" concerning accommodation on a royal estate and had no plan to meet his father in person.

Amidst Harry's presence in London, Charles was preoccupied with an array of commitments including a visit to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, attending a military barracks, and hosting a garden party at Buckingham Palace - an event Harry seemingly lacked an invitation to.

Joining Charles in London without Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, left royal enthusiasts disappointed there was no reunion between Charles and his grandchildren.

His last encounter with them occurred while attending the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

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