King Charles to make reference to Iran war in Commonwealth Day message

The world faces “a time of great challenge”

In an extract released ahead of Monday’s annual event, King Charles, head of the Commonwealth, writes: "We join together on this Commonwealth Day at a time of great challenge and great possibility.

"Across our world, communities and nations face the increasing pressures of conflict, climate change and rapid transformation. Yet it is often in such testing moments that the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth is most clearly revealed."

It could also be interpreted as a veiled reference to the recent hostilities between US and Israeli forces and Iran, as well as conflicts from Ukraine to Sudan. Scientists also declared 2025 the third-warmest year on record, as the climate crisis remains a long-standing concern for the King.

However, wishing to convey an optimistic tone about the role of Commonwealth nations, he also writes: "Working together, we can ensure that the Commonwealth continues to stand as a force for good - grounded in community, committed to the kind of restorative sustainability that has a return on investment, enriched by culture, steadfast in its care for our planet, and united in friendship and in the service of its people."

An annual service to mark Commonwealth Day will take place at Westminster Abbey on Monday, attended by senior members of the Royal Family, leading politicians, and diplomats among a congregation of 1,800.

Charles and Camilla will be joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales, along with the Princess Royal and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.

Notably, it will be the first significant gathering of senior members of the royal family since the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.