Mohammed R. Mhawish Receives 2025 Neal Conan Prize for Journalistic Bravery

Celebrating Courage in Journalism: Mohammed R. Mhawish and the 2025 Neal Conan Prize

On November 22, 2025, the esteemed Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism was awarded to Mohammed R. Mhawish during a poignant ceremony held in New York City. This annual award, which comes with a $50,000 stipend, aims to honor those journalists who display unparalleled bravery and dedication in their reporting, especially in conflict zones. Mhawish's compelling work on civilian life during the Gaza war, amidst the backdrop of extreme danger for reporters, has earned him significant recognition in the journalism community.

Mhawish, a Gaza-based journalist, was lauded for his exceptional ability to depict the human experiences overshadowed by violence and chaos. His articles have graced the pages of prominent publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, and This American Life, each reflecting a meticulous commitment to factual accuracy and humane storytelling. His deep empathy for the struggles faced by ordinary Gazans comes through poignantly in his reporting.

During the awards ceremony, Mhawish participated in a panel discussion alongside previous winners, Jane Ferguson and Hind Hassan, moderated by Bruce Shapiro from The Global Center for Journalism and Trauma. Mhawish shared his harrowing tale of surviving a direct attack on his home, an experience that left him trapped under debris for hours, leading to the tragic loss of family members. His narrative highlights the precarious nature of journalism in conflict zones, where the stakes are alarmingly high.

A Period of Rising Risks for Journalists

The aftermath of the Gaza conflict has unveiled a bleak reality for journalists worldwide. In recent years, we have witnessed the deadliest period on record for journalists, particularly highlighting the plight of Palestinian reporters. Since October 2023, over 249 Palestinian journalists have been killed, a figure that sadly eclipses casualties from various historic conflicts, including the World Wars and the Vietnam War. More than 50 of Mhawish's colleagues tragically lost their lives while carrying out their duty to report the truth, showcasing the extreme risks these brave individuals face daily.

During the panel, Hind Hassan remarked on the dehumanization of Palestinian journalists, stressing their resilience and commitment to reporting the truth, even in the face of systemic dismissal and danger. Furthermore, Jane Ferguson described the ongoing devastation in Gaza as unprecedented, highlighting the erosion of protective measures that ordinarily safeguard journalists and civilians alike.

In accepting the prestigious Neal Conan Prize, Mhawish expressed the profound importance of his work within Gaza. He described journalism as a lifeline for him—a means of chronicling the existence and resilience of his community amidst pervasive attempts to erase their stories from history. “This happened, so remember us,” he said, urging the world to acknowledge the reality his people face.

Supporting Robust Journalism in Challenging Times

As the news industry experiences unprecedented pressures and transformations, the Neal Conan Prize stands as a testament to the importance of rigorous and human-centered reporting. Founded amidst a swift decline in quality journalism, the award supports those who uphold integrity in storytelling. As notable author Gretel Ehrlich commented, the closing of serious news shows exemplified the industry's troubling shift towards prioritizing profit over impactful reporting.

Mhawish's work exemplifies what is essential in these times: a commitment to uncovering truth and providing a voice to those often silenced. The prize not only recognizes his achievements but serves as a rallying call to support and perpetuate the spirit of fearless journalism across the globe.

For those interested in championing high-quality reporting, the Neal Conan Prize welcomes nominations and promotes the necessity of unwavering commitment to journalistic principles. More information can be found at nealconanprize.org.