Harry Sees Path to 'Safe Reconciliation' After Years of Tension — Two Things Could Bring Him Home
Prince Harry has spent years locked in a very public standoff with the institution that he grew up in. The past five years have been relentless for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their exit from royal life was followed by several complications. For much of that time, Harry appeared to be fighting everyone at once — the Palace, the press, and public opinion. Now, after half a decade, there are signs that the impasse may finally be shifting, and it is security and rebuilding family ties through Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet that can serve as the catalyst.
Harry’s long-running battle over security has been the major bone of contention. His government-funded police protection was removed after he stepped back as a working royal, a move he has argued makes returning to the UK unsafe for his wife and children. With a decision by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) now widely expected, insiders suggest reinstatement may be close. If that happens, it could unlock more than just physical access to Britain.
“It certainly paves the way for a safe reconciliation,” says royal commentator Afua Hagan, speaking to The Express. “We know that Harry wants a reconciliation; he's made that abundantly clear. He's said that in an interview, and I believe that the King does as well.” She believes improved security could allow Harry to resume family contact that has been largely frozen since 2022. “If the security situation is sorted and it's favourable towards Harry, then this could absolutely be a time for Harry to bring Archie and Lilibet to see their grandfather, and potentially his brother and his brother's children.”
Harry’s children have not visited the UK since the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II in June 2022. Their absence has only deepened the sense of separation — and, according to some royal watchers, may also hold the key to mending fences. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams agrees that the children are Harry’s strongest bridge back. “Their rift with the Royal Family remains deep,” he says. “However, their trump card is undoubtedly Archie and Lilibet. If they came, there would be worldwide fascination and a gentler reception.” Fitzwilliams suggests their presence could change the tone of any return. “They would be likely to see King Charles, and there will undoubtedly be questions about their long-term plans… they cannot be blamed for their parents’ behaviour.”
Still, reconciliation would require more than goodwill and family. Trust, insiders say, remains fragile. Any meaningful reset would depend on assurances that private conversations stay private. Yet professionally, Harry still has ties pulling him back to Britain. His work with WellChild and, most significantly, the Invictus Games, keeps him anchored to the UK. Birmingham is set to host the Games in 2027, with a 'One Year to Go' event scheduled this summer. Harry is expected to attend.
Whether Markle will join him is another question. Fitzwilliams believes any visit would be strategic. “Meghan’s chosen path is Hollywood and the United States,” he says. “She clearly proposes to use Invictus and the first of what may prove to be a series of visits to Britain to remind the world of her royal status.” Hagan, however, has a different opinion. “There is a proportion of people who absolutely love her,” she says, “but I think the price will be the negative storylines… I don't think she will come back immediately.”