Prince William’s strongly worded statement, issued ahead of his first visit to highlight the human suffering caused by the conflict, is an attempt to show the world just how much he cares about the Middle East.
The region has long been an area of concern for the heir to the throne and today’s intervention proves he is determined to see peace in the region during his lifetime.
William’s message is also likely to cut through more than similar statements from politicians as it is unusual for a member of the Royal Family to make such stark comments on an ongoing conflict.
The timing has also not gone unnoticed, with a crunch vote on a humanitarian ceasefire scheduled for Wednesday. Critics will undoubtedly use this as to accuse him of wading into political matters.
But by pushing the current Gaza conflict, William is proving that he’s in touch with the British public as thousands of people take to the streets each weekend to call for an immediate ceasefire. He has firmly taken a moral stance, which will cut through.
The issue fits neatly with his determination to make the Royal Family more relatable and prove to the public that the Firm is not as out of touch as its critics make out.
Over the past few years the Prince and Princess of Wales have actively sought to engage younger audiences, through their social media channels and the types of causes they promote.
It appears that his decision to make a bold stand on the Gaza war has been shaped by his own recent experiences, with his father and wife both having had major health scares this year.
He has taken some time out to prioritise his young family, and a Kensington Palace spokesperson noted that he has been “deeply moved as a father”.
What becomes clear from William’s actions today is that he is determined to push the conflict in the Middle East to the forefront of the agenda.
