A representative from Buckingham Palace conveyed the duchess’s heartfelt condolences and sympathies to Ms. Holland’s family. It is understood that the duchess will personally reach out to the family in a private capacity to offer her support and comfort during this difficult time.
The news of Ms. Holland’s passing comes as the duchess is on a visit to Iraq. During her visit, she has been advocating for survivors of sexual violence in conflict, speaking on their behalf. The duchess has engaged with various prominent political and civil society figures, including President Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani.
The two-day trip was arranged at the request of the UK Foreign Office to support its women, peace, and security agenda. Given the sensitive nature of the visit, it had been kept secret for security reasons, according to Buckingham Palace.