Prince William ignored a question from a journalist about the Jeffrey Epstein files during a public engagement in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, prompting renewed attention on the royal family’s handling of the controversy.

The moment occurred in Riyadh, where the Prince of Wales was attending an official event as part of a visit focused on environmental cooperation and charitable initiatives. As he was approached by members of the media, a reporter asked whether the royal family had done enough to address the allegations linked to Epstein and his uncle, Prince Andrew. Prince William did not respond and moved on without comment.

The question followed fresh international scrutiny after the publication of court documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein, which have reignited debate over the involvement of prominent figures and institutional accountability. Prince Andrew has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and withdrew from public duties in 2019.

Earlier in the week, Kensington Palace issued a statement on behalf of the Prince and Princess of Wales saying they were “deeply concerned” by the revelations contained in the Epstein-related documents and that their thoughts were with the victims.

Royal aides have traditionally avoided unscripted public comment on sensitive legal matters during overseas engagements, a position reflected in Prince William’s decision not to respond during the visit.