Royal commentator claims the Duke's reported travel plans could bolster his security argument.
Prince Harry's reported plans to return to the UK have reignited discussion over his long-running security dispute, with one royal commentator suggesting the Duke may be using the situation to strengthen his case for police protection.
Speaking on the Palace Confidential podcast, royal commentator Richard Eden claimed Harry and Meghan Markle's reported accommodation preferences for a future UK visit could be tied to the Duke's ongoing campaign for enhanced security.
"Frankly, this all seems like a bit of a trap," Eden said during the discussion with co-host Richard Kay.
According to Eden, Harry and Meghan have indicated they would stay at a royal residence only if security arrangements were guaranteed whenever they travelled with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
He argued that such an arrangement could place both King Charles and the UK government in a difficult position.
"They're putting the King and government in a position where in the future they can say, 'This is what we expect every time,' and indeed, 'If we have it in Britain, we should get it in America as well,'" Eden claimed.
The commentator went on to describe the situation as "a lot of manipulation," adding that he found it "quite unedifying."
The comments come amid reports that Prince Harry is expected to visit the UK as preparations continue for the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham. However, details surrounding the trip remain unconfirmed, including whether Meghan Markle, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet will accompany him.
Harry has been involved in a lengthy legal battle over his security arrangements in the UK since stepping back as a senior working royal in 2020. In May 2025, he lost his appeal against the Home Office's decision that he should not automatically receive taxpayer-funded police protection while visiting Britain.
Neither Prince Harry nor his representatives have responded to Eden's latest remarks.
