In a notable exclusion that has sparked conversation, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not received an invitation to join the royal family’s annual summer retreat at Balmoral Castle. This comes amidst ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and the monarchy, and just ahead of their much-publicized trip to Colombia. A royal commentator has suggested that the British royal family might be engaging in a scheme to undermine Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they plan for their controversial ‘faux-royal’ tour.

For years, Balmoral Castle in Scotland has served as the royal family’s private haven, offering a secluded escape from public scrutiny. Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, the 50,000-acre estate has been a cherished retreat for generations, allowing the royals to engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and horseback riding.

Despite the tradition of gathering at Balmoral, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly been excluded from this year’s royal assembly. Sources close to the royal circle have confirmed to People magazine that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not invited to join the family at the estate, a custom King Charles has maintained following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year.

This exclusion continues a pattern that has persisted since the couple stepped back from their royal duties in 2020. While Prince Harry grew up attending Balmoral gatherings, his wife Meghan has reportedly never visited the estate. Similarly, their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, have not been included in this family tradition.

The absence of Harry and Meghan from Balmoral this summer underscores the ongoing tensions between them and the royal family. Since their decision to step down as senior royals and relocate to California, the Sussexes have been at the center of numerous controversies and disputes with the monarchy, some of which have been publicly aired through interviews and Harry’s memoir, Spare.

Sources have suggested that their exclusion from Balmoral may reflect deeper issues within the family. “This is not just a simple scheduling issue,” said royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams in an interview with Express.co.uk. “The absence of an invitation is likely a sign of the ongoing rift and perhaps an indication of the current state of relations.”

Adding to the intrigue, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing for an upcoming trip to Colombia. Scheduled to include charitable engagements and meetings with local organizations, the visit has been described by some media outlets as a ‘faux-royal’ tour, drawing comparisons to the couple’s previous work as senior royals.

The timing of this trip has led to speculation about whether the royal family is deliberately seeking to overshadow the Sussexes’ plans. While there is no official comment from the palace, some royal commentators have speculated that the exclusion from Balmoral might be intended to minimize the couple’s media exposure before their Colombia tour.

Royal commentators have been quick to analyze the situation, offering varying interpretations of the dynamics at play. Speaking to Vanity Fair, royal correspondent Katie Nicholl suggested that the Sussexes’ exclusion from Balmoral “might be seen as an indication of unresolved issues within the family.” She added, “The royal family’s actions often speak louder than words, and this seems to be a clear message about where things stand.”

Further complicating matters, insiders have pointed out that the ongoing security concerns raised by Prince Harry may also play a role in their decision to remain distant from the UK. Harry has been vocal about his desire for increased security for his family during visits to the UK, a battle that has seen legal challenges and public debate.

The question of security has been a significant point of contention for Prince Harry. After being stripped of his taxpayer-funded security detail in 2020, Harry has been actively seeking legal recourse to secure police protection for his family while in the UK. This ongoing battle has highlighted the complexities of the Sussexes’ relationship with the monarchy and the challenges they face in maintaining their roles on the international stage.

Royal commentator Omid Scobie, known for his close ties to the Sussexes, noted in an article for Harper’s Bazaar that “the issue of security remains a major obstacle for Harry when it comes to any potential reconciliation with his family. It’s a deeply personal matter that impacts his decisions and actions.”

As the royal family continues their tradition at Balmoral without Harry and Meghan, the world watches closely for any signs of reconciliation or further division. The relationship between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family remains complex and multifaceted, influenced by a combination of personal grievances, public perceptions, and historical tensions.

The Sussexes’ upcoming Colombia tour adds another layer to this intricate dynamic, offering them a platform to continue their philanthropic efforts while navigating their unique position outside the confines of traditional royal roles.

For now, the question remains whether these familial rifts can be healed or if they will continue to define the Sussexes’ place within the broader royal narrative.