A close friend of Prince Harry has delivered an eight-word update on the rift with Prince William after the Duke and Meghan Markle returned to the UK.
Harry and Meghan touched down in the UK on Wednesday, August 26, six years after moving to North America, ahead of an 'extended stay'. The homecoming has thrust the relationship between the brothers back into the spotlight, with a reunion now appearing more likely.
The Duke, 41, and his older brother William, 44, have not spoken for years, but the move is being viewed as an initial step towards ending their bitter row.
Friend's update on the brothers' bond
A confidant of Harry shared an update on the brothers' relationship, telling News 24: "There is a chance it will all heal."
The remark follows another source telling People that the King "will want to see his sons together over time." The insider revealed that Harry and his family's return to England "is the best opportunity we have seen in recent years."
"It is going to be challenging for William. It will be very hard for him and Catherine."
William's position and royal expert's view
William has made his position towards his brother clear, having refused to reunite with him or his niece and nephew during the Sussexes' visit in July.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams suggested there is hope for the family row to be 'gradually resolved'. He told the Daily Mail that William and the King must have an 'aligned' approach towards Harry.
"It is essential for the future of the monarchy that the King and Prince William agree on a joint approach - both publicly and privately - on how this should be handled," Fitzwilliams said.
"Since it is essential for the future of the monarchy that they speak with one voice on substantive issues, this is damaging for the monarchy and confusing for the public."
"There is a lot to play for, and obviously we must hope one of the world's most public family disputes is gradually resolved."
Friction and possible reconciliation
Friction between the siblings has escalated in recent years, with Harry participating in revealing interviews and his own Netflix series, exposing the family's private matters.
Most significantly, in his autobiography Spare, Harry disclosed particulars of a physical altercation between himself and William, while also revealing that Catherine had made Meghan cry.
It is understood that the brothers might reconcile for Charles's sake, as he has pleaded with them not to make his remaining years 'a misery'.
