Prince Harry delivered an emotional account in a UK courtroom on Wednesday, accusing two major British newspapers of causing serious personal harm through what he described as unlawful and invasive newsgathering practices.

While giving evidence in a long-running lawsuit against Associated Newspapers Ltd (ANL) — the publisher behind the Daily Mail and The Mail on Sunday — the Duke of Sussex said the case had taken a heavy emotional toll on him and his family. At times visibly shaken, Harry described the legal fight as deeply painful but unavoidable.

He told the court that the alleged actions of the tabloids had placed sustained pressure on his wife, Meghan, and made her life extraordinarily difficult. According to Harry, the situation worsened after he chose to challenge the media groups in court, claiming that the newspapers intensified their focus on him in response to the lawsuit.

Harry said continuing the case felt necessary despite the emotional cost, adding that standing up to the media had not brought relief but instead prolonged the distress. The proceedings are part of a broader legal effort involving multiple public figures who allege that ANL engaged in illegal methods to obtain private information.

The publisher has strongly denied the accusations. The case is being closely watched as it could have major implications for press conduct and privacy laws in the UK.