The growing divide between Prince Harry and the royal family was once again made evident during King Charles’ recent birthday celebrations.

At Trooping the Colour, the King appeared with Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Kate, and their three children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—but Harry and his family were notably absent.

Though Prince Harry, 40, has previously expressed hope for reconciling with his father, he’s made it clear that his family’s safety must come first. Following a legal loss in May, he stated he couldn’t consider returning to the UK unless his wife and children could be properly protected.

A Real Concern for Meghan’s Safety

According to former royal editor Duncan Larcombe, the chances of Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, making regular visits to the UK are increasingly unlikely due to Meghan Markle’s fears about their safety.

“Meghan understandably feels frightened about coming to the UK with the children,” Larcombe explained. “There are real threats—from extremists or attention-seekers who might try something dangerous. And then there’s the terrorist threat. Harry is a high-profile target, and that extends to his family.”

Though Meghan, 43, has appeared more open recently, sharing moments like her Baby Momma dance and family outings to Disneyland, returning to the UK with her children is another matter entirely.

Stronger, But Still Anxious

A source told The Mirror that although Meghan is feeling more confident lately, her worries about security remain constant.

“In many ways she feels stronger now and wants to share that,” said the insider. “But she’s still terrified of risking her kids’ safety by coming back to the UK. Any parent in her position would feel the same.”

This ongoing fear makes it difficult, even for Harry, to justify bringing his family back—even when emotional moments like Trooping the Colour and Father’s Day stir deep feelings of longing.