Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have expressed their well wishes for Catherine, Princess of Wales, following her announcement of a cancer diagnosis.

The estranged royal couple, who are currently residing in California, issued a statement extending their hopes for "health and healing" to Kate and her family during this challenging time.

"We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace," the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a statement on Friday.

The news of Kate's illness comes amidst ongoing tensions within the British royal family. Prince Harry and Meghan, who have distanced themselves from royal duties and relocated to California since 2020, are forging their own path outside of traditional royal obligations.

Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex on the long Walk at Windsor Castle on September 10, 2022, before meeting well-wishers.

Their departure from official royal duties was accompanied by public scrutiny and accusations of mistreatment by the royal institution, leading to strained relationships with other members of the family.

Also Read: Princess of Wales Kate Middleton reveals cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy treatment

Relations between Prince Harry and his brother Prince William have reportedly soured in recent years, with the brothers reportedly not speaking for months. Harry's public criticism of his family, including allegations of mistreatment towards Meghan and himself, has further strained their relationship.

This tension reached a peak with the release of Harry's autobiography, "Spare," in which he detailed years of family feuding and personal struggles.

Meghan has also been vocal about her experiences within the royal family, including allegations of racism and discrimination. Her revelations, including during a high-profile interview with Oprah Winfrey, have sparked controversy and drawn strong responses from other members of the royal family.

In a heartfelt public announcement on Saturday, Princess of Wales Kate Middleton bravely disclosed her recent cancer diagnosis at the age of 42. The video message was filmed at Windsor on Wednesday, where Catherine expressed her shock at the diagnosis and her determination to fight the illness.

A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024

She highlighted the support of her husband, Prince William, and the importance of family during this challenging time.

The diagnosis came to light following major abdominal surgery at The London Clinic in January, initially believed to be non-cancerous. However, post-operative tests revealed the presence of cancer, prompting a course of preventative chemotherapy, which Catherine commenced in late February.

Despite the shocking news, she remains optimistic and focused on her recovery, with a strong support system in place.