Prince William and Kate Middleton's decision to stay away from a family gathering last week between King Charles III and Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and their children was a deliberate, strategic choice rather than a snub, according to a royal commentator who spoke to Fox News Digital.

King Charles reunited with Harry, Meghan and their children, Archie and Lilibet, last Friday during the couple's trip to Britain, a meeting that had fueled speculation about a possible broader reconciliation within the royal family. However, the Prince and Princess of Wales did not take part in the gathering, notably staying away from the California-based couple amid their continuing estrangement.

A 'Strategic' Absence, According to a Royal Commentator

Royal expert Helena Chard, speaking to Fox News Digital, characterized William and Kate's absence from the reunion as a calculated decision rather than a sign of ongoing hostility toward Harry and Meghan.

"I don't see the Prince and Princess of Wales' absence as a snub. It is strategic. You can't have an institutional reconciliation without Prince William, the future king," Chard said.

That framing suggests that any broader, formal reconciliation between the royal family and the Sussexes would require William's direct involvement and endorsement, given his position as heir to the throne, and that his absence from Friday's more private gathering may have........

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