A highly sensitive security report warns that Prince Harry is under threat from right-wing extremists and jihadists as he prepares for his upcoming trip to the UK. The report, seen by ITV News, claims that Harry is the subject of six terrorist plots, five of which originated in the UK. It is understood that the duke is yet to decide whether to bring his children on the UK visit due to security concerns.
Security report details threats
The report found that there are "at least six plots against The Duke from jihadist and right-wing threat actors that have targeted other high-profile Britons." The US-based security firm employed by Harry and Meghan highlighted that "the highest priority threat" to the Sussex family "comes from so-called lone wolf terrorists."
The report notes that as the King's son and with children who are fifth and seventh in line to the throne, the threats faced by the couple are real and significant. It states that Harry "is still The King's son and remains a symbol of the crown."
Extremist grievances and military service
The report adds: "Extremists with grievances against Great Britain – including jihadists or others that oppose the Commonwealth – pose a considerable threat and do not take his specific role into account. The Duke has been the target of specific jihadist threats ever since serving in Afghanistan in 2007/2008."
Harry has faced a protracted legal battle with the Home Office over security arrangements for him and his family when in the UK, after his level of protection changed when he stepped down as a working royal in 2020. Security worries for his family have been cited by the duke as a reason he could not bring them to the UK, but reports claim the Sussexes were given assurances.
Protection limitations in the UK
It is understood that Harry was left angry after being informed that he would not be entitled to police protection for the whole of his UK trip. Harry employs a private security detail and would do so on his UK trip when state protection is not provided. In the US and overseas, Harry's protection is able to carry weapons but cannot do so in the UK.
The report concludes that "UK authorities are much better positioned to provide him with more comprehensive protection." It adds that Harry's private protection officers are prevented from "adequately responding to an armed attack from a terrorist, criminal, or mentally unstable actor. Only UK police, with authorisation from RAVEC, can carry lethal weapons while protecting The Duke."
Home Office response
The report concludes: "The only way to mitigate residual risks to The Duke is to provide him with state-backed security." The Home Office told ITV News that its protective security system is "rigorous and proportionate" but would not give details about individual arrangements.
