While the royal family traditionally refrains from making public statements about private matters, they have long employed subtle gestures, such as honours, official engagements, and photo opportunities, to signal their stance on sensitive issues.
This week, the theme appears to be one of unity. On Tuesday, the Prince and Princess of Wales hosted the annual Buckingham Palace garden party, with a significant turnout from senior and extended royals. In attendance were Prince Edward, Duchess Sophie, Princess Eugenie, Zara Tindall, and her husband, Mike Tindall.
Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla held a separate engagement at Canada House ahead of their royal tour of the country next week. The timing and symbolism of these dual appearances have not gone unnoticed.
Tensions between King Charles and Prince Harry have remained high in recent years, and the rift widened further following Harry’s latest explosive interview with the BBC. While the Duke of Sussex said he remained open to reconciliation, his pointed criticisms of the royal family were reportedly perceived as a “betrayal” by his father.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told Express.co.uk that the King is now relying on “soft power” to project an image of unity within the monarchy during this difficult period.
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“This is a testing time for the Royal Family, with King Charles battling cancer and the Princess of Wales in remission, whilst the Sussexes have resumed hostilities,” Fitzwilliams said.
He pointed out that the presence of so many royals at the garden party, including Princess Catherine in her first appearance at such an event in two years, was a highly symbolic show of strength.
“It is highly significant to see so many members of the royal family at the garden party,” he said. “A show of unity is especially important when an institution, the most significant for Britain’s projection of soft power, faces challenges.”
Fitzwilliams also noted the broader purpose of these gatherings, which serve to honour and highlight philanthropic and community contributions. “These parties bring recognition of philanthropic efforts, especially locally,” he added.
As the King prepares to depart for Canada, the royal family appears to be strategically reinforcing a message of resilience and unity—without saying a word.