Israel-Hamas war: Prince William prepared to risk reputation if his Middle East intervention can make any difference
The usual subtle style of the Royal Family has been cast aside to make it abundantly clear how horrified Prince William has been watching the unfolding human suffering on both sides - and that he wants the fighting to stop.
Tuesday 20 February 2024 21:14, UK
You're left in no doubt from his statement - the words couldn't be more powerful.
Prince William has made the deliberate decision to wade into the debate about the conflict in the Middle East, whatever the reaction.
The usual subtle style of the Royal Family has been cast to one side to make it abundantly clear how horrified he's been watching the unfolding human suffering on both sides and that he wants the fighting to stop.
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I'm told we should note he doesn't specifically use the phrase ceasefire - he could have done but chose not to, the first clear hint that he doesn't want this rare intervention to be seen as political.
However, we're told the Foreign Office was informed of his statement, and they told No 10.
All sides knew it would cause a stir.
And from things he's said in the past, the prince himself does realise he is putting his head above the parapet on a deeply politicised issue and is expecting some to criticise him for it.
His first visit to physically show his commitment to highlighting the plight of millions was the London offices of the British Red Cross.
An international organisation recognised for their neutrality, it was seen to be a safe space where he could voice his concerns.
He explained how his trip to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories in 2018 - the first by a member of the British Royal Family - had a lasting impression on him and has spurred on his continued interest.
But his words were always chosen carefully, as among other conversations he dialled into was a video call with the team in Gaza.
His overriding question for everyone was why can the politicisation of the conflict not be separated from the humanitarian efforts?
Through his statement he also made it clear his concern isn't just the situation for Palestinians in Gaza, referencing the Israeli hostages, and in the coming days he'll visit a synagogue to learn more about the rise in antisemitism.
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It is easy to sometimes overlook the international diplomatic influence of our Royal Family.
They are known around the world, and his comments will resonate globally.
I understand that William saw the King in Norfolk over the weekend.
We can assume he discussed his statement with his father. It is, after all, a subject that's concerning them both greatly.
The King has also recently asked for and had his own private briefing from the Red Cross on the situation.
This time, you could say he has left his son to articulate what could be seen as the position of the British monarchy.
Another heir to the throne who is clearly prepared to risk his reputation if he thinks an intervention from him can make any difference to those suffering on all sides.