Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit Market Theatre Square in Armagh, Northern Ireland in May. Photo / AP
Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit Market Theatre Square in Armagh, Northern Ireland in May. Photo / AP
The news of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis is sending shock waves across the world.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” Buckingham Palace said this morning.
“His Majesty hastoday commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christoper Luxon posted on X (formerly Twitter) that New Zealand wished the King all the best.
“Kia Kaha King Charles. On behalf of all Kiwis I wish His Majesty all the very best for a speedy recovery,” said Luxon, who has been at Waitangi this morning.
He said: “King Charles has cancer. He is a wonderful man, who I got to know well during my presidency, and we all pray that he has a fast and full recovery!”
US President Joe Biden says he is concerned about the King and Donald Trump wishes Charles a fast and full recovery. Photos / AP
The King received immediate support from UK MPs, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hoping for a “full and speedy recovery” for him.
“I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well,” Sunak said on X.
Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery.
I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well. https://t.co/W4qe806gmv
Both Commons Speaker Sir Lyndsay Hoyle and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer wished the King a speedy recovery.
Other European politicians were also quick to wish the King well. First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford wished the King a “full and swift recovery.”
King Charles III following the Coronation Service. Photo / Julia McCarthy-Fox
He expressed his sadness over the news that HM King Charles III is dealing with additional health issues in a message on X.
‘My thoughts and those of people across Wales will be with him and his family this evening.
‘I send my very best wishes as he starts treatment for a full and swift recovery.
‘Gwellhad buan.’
The newly appointed First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O’Neill, a republican leader of Sinn Fein, wished the King a full and expeditious recovery.
‘I am very sorry to hear of King Charles’ illness and I want to wish him well for his treatment, and a full and speedy recovery,’ she posted on X.
‘I am very sorry to hear of King Charles’ illness', says Michelle O'Neill. Photo / AP
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis said he was “saddened to have heard about His Majesty’s diagnosis”.
“I know that the Jewish communities of Great Britain and the Commonwealth will join me in wishing him a Refuah Sheleima - a complete and swift recovery,” Mirvis posted to social media.
Charles poses with his sons Prince William (right) and Prince Harry (left) during the Royal Family's ski break at Klosters on March 31, 2005 in Switzerland. Photo / Getty Images
The UK news source stated that the King, who just became the longest-serving heir to the throne in British history after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on September 8, 2022, would likely face “professionally devastating” consequences as a result of the diagnosis.
