Duke of Sussex claims Royal Household played central role in decision to strip police protection
Prince Harry has reignited tensions with the monarchy by releasing a striking new statement following his legal defeat over UK security arrangements, alleging behind-the-scenes involvement from the Royal Household and what he calls "shocking truths."
In the follow-up to his emotional BBC interview, the Duke of Sussex, speaking via an official statement from Sussex.com, declared that his legal action had always been about “ensuring the safety of my family” during UK visits — but claims it ultimately uncovered disturbing revelations.
“This legal action has been a last resort,” Harry stated, “but one that has uncovered shocking truths, starting with the fact that the Royal Household are key decision-makers on RAVEC and my sole representation for matters regarding my safety.”
He went on to claim that key figures involved in the RAVEC process retired shortly after their involvement, and recalled a previously undisclosed 2017 incident in which Meghan Markle was initially denied protection when she was set to join the royal family — a decision allegedly reversed only after Harry demanded accountability.
In his sharpest criticism yet, Harry stated that in 2020, RAVEC refused to conduct the required annual threat assessment, violating their own procedures. He said this led to the revocation of lifelong protection, warning that:
“This reckless action knowingly put me and my family in harm’s way… while signalling to other governments to follow suit.”
Harry reiterated that he offered to pay for appropriate police protection, but said his proposal was ignored, adding:
“No one responded directly to me about my offer… My legal claim failed even though I challenged the refusal to let me pay.”
The statement directly challenges the Palace’s rare official response, which said the matter had been “examined repeatedly and meticulously by the courts” with the same conclusion each time.
Despite reports from former Scotland Yard officials that Harry has access to intelligence through liaison officers, the Duke continues to argue that these measures are “insufficient given the threats” he and his family face.
This latest statement escalates the already strained relationship between Harry and the Royal Family, spotlighting conflicting narratives about transparency, protocol, and security — and suggesting the rift may only deepen as the Sussexes stand firm on the issue.
