Foreign Office distances itself from Harry and Meghan’s ‘inappropriate’ visit to Jordan’s UK embassy
Foreign Office distances itself from Harry and Meghan’s ‘inappropriate’ visit to Jordan’s UK embassy
Following reports that Harry and Meghan faced a cold reception from Jordan’s royal family, the British Government has taken a step back from their Middle East itinerary, according to the Daily Mail. The couple’s two-day trip to the region has sparked debate over their status and the extent of official support they received.
Controversy over embassy invitation
A confidential informant revealed that the invitation to the Iftar event was initially extended to Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, who later invited Harry and Meghan as guests. The British Ambassador to Jordan, Phillip Hall, did not directly host the couple, though they were present at his residence during the occasion.
“Their attendance at the British Ambassador’s reception was entirely inappropriate,” stated former Tory minister Tim Loughton. “Given their claim as private citizens, involving British diplomats in such a setting could imply endorsement of their personal agenda.”
Private status and diplomatic involvement
The Foreign Office has remained silent on the Sussexes’ visit, with officials asserting that the couple, as private citizens, were not part of an official British mission. However, a source confirmed that the British Ambassador’s residence was the venue for their participation in the Iftar gathering, indicating some level of diplomatic engagement.
Harry and Meghan used the trip to meet Syrian and Gaza refugees, aligning with their partnership with the World Health Organization. Their humanitarian efforts were highlighted in a press release, which noted the event as a closing ritual for the day’s activities.
Close ties between Jordan and UK royals
The current Jordanian king, Abdullah II, maintains strong bonds with the British Royal Family. His relationship with King Charles has been cultivated through previous interactions, including an official visit to London last year where they exchanged warm greetings. Queen Rania, Abdullah’s wife, was also a special VVIP guest at the coronation and engaged in discussions on women’s issues with Queen Camilla.
Crown Prince Hussein, the king’s son, has spent time with Prince William in recent years, from shared football moments to a visit to an RAF base. Prince William and Meghan, now the Princess of Wales, attended Hussein’s wedding in 2023, underscoring the family connection.
Snubbed by Jordanian royals
Despite their presence in Amman, a Jordanian source told the Daily Mail: “There is no meeting scheduled between the Duke and Duchess [of Sussex] and the Jordanian royal family.” The only royal family member they encountered was Princess Basma Bint Talal, an aunt of the king, during a visit to a foundation-run initiative.
Questions remain about the Sussexes’ role in the Middle East tour. While they claim to be acting independently, their interactions with British diplomatic figures have raised eyebrows, with critics suggesting their private mission may have drawn official backing.
Public perception and political implications
Some royal insiders view the couple’s appearance at the embassy event as a strategic move, noting that “British diplomats are once again involved.” Yet, others argue that allowing them a platform could mistakenly frame their activities as representing UK policy, especially when they claim to be operating outside of royal duties.
As the Sussexes continue their global humanitarian outreach, the debate over their official status and the implications of their travels persists, with the British Government maintaining a cautious stance.
