Prince Harry has requested police protection in the United Kingdom following threats from al-Qaeda, as revealed in newly released court documents. The Duke of Sussex’s legal team argued that his life is at risk due to the refusal of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) to guarantee police protection during his visits to the UK.
Court proceedings disclosed that al-Qaeda had called for Prince Harry’s assassination, citing his military service in Afghanistan. The group reportedly published a document stating that his assassination would “please the Muslim community” .
Prince Harry’s lawyers contended that RAVEC deviated from standard procedures by not consulting its risk management board for a security assessment. Although a 2019 analysis recommended protective security, it was withdrawn in 2020 after Harry ceased being a working royal and relocated abroad. His offer to personally fund police protection was also denied.
The Duke expressed concern for the safety of his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children, stating that the lack of automatic police protection made him reluctant to bring his family to the UK. He criticized the decision-making as inconsistent with the treatment of other VIPs and emphasized the personal importance of safeguarding his loved ones .
The Home Office’s legal team argued that the current assessment process is better suited to Prince Harry’s circumstances. A ruling on the appeal is expected within weeks, with significant legal costs anticipated for the losing party .
