Monarch refuses to let rift with son grow into 'mountain of resentment'
King Charles III is prioritising peace within the royal family, deliberately avoiding direct confrontation with his youngest son, Harry, despite the Duke’s public criticism and ongoing tension.
According to palace sources, the 76-year-old monarch believes the only path forward is unity, and he remains determined not to “build a mountain of resentment.” Even while undergoing cancer treatment, the King continues to hope for a renewed bond with the Sussexes.
While there has reportedly been no recent contact between father and son, both sides are said to be interested in reconciliation—though each appears to believe the other must take the first step.
“In many ways, the royal family is no different to any other family,” said a source. “It’s their shared humanity, rather than their royal status, that offers the best chance of healing. Harry may resent the role he was assigned, but the bond between father and son remains.”
The King is said to hold firm in his belief that reconciliation will come in time. “What father does not forgive their son?” the source added.
Royal commentators, including historian Jonathan Dimbleby, have noted that while Harry’s public remarks have strained relations, Charles’s response has remained restrained and focused on resolution. Dimbleby previously remarked: “If he wants reconciliation, I don’t understand how he expects to achieve it by metaphorically sitting in his Apache firing potshots at people who won’t fire back.”
Despite the wounds, the King’s approach reflects a steadfast commitment to mending familial ties rather than fuelling further division.
