"The bombs falling in Gaza are being guided by code written in California. This isn’t a war; it’s a joint venture of genocide.” At DAWN’s 2026 Annual Gala & Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C., we honored Ahmed Shihab-Eldin (@aseisfree), an Emmy-nominated journalist, presenting him with the 2026 Jamal Khashoggi Defender of Justice Award, for his courageous journalism, outspoken defense of Palestinian rights, and commitment to speaking truth despite the personal consequences. Throughout his career, Ahmed has challenged mainstream media's failures, exposing how political and corporate interests can shape coverage and silence uncomfortable truths. For him, journalism is not simply about reporting facts, but about using stories to illuminate the human condition and, in his words, “to move society forward.” His reporting and advocacy have been uncompromising, including on Palestine. “Language matters,” he reminds us, challenging the unequal ways Palestinian and Israeli lives are portrayed in the media. He insists that genuine peace requires equality, accountability, Palestinian self-determination, and an end to occupation. In March 2026, Ahmed was arrested in Kuwait, where he was visiting family, after sharing a news clip about events there. His 52-day detention and Kuwait’s revocation of his citizenship underscore the personal cost journalists can face for exercising their right to speak freely. Yet his message remains one of courage, solidarity, and hope: “Do not underestimate the power of connecting with other human beings and drawing strength from there,” he says. “Because that is how change happens historically: political change, social change for any community.” Watch this video tribute honoring Ahmed’s courage, principled journalism, and unwavering commitment to justice. We’ll continue sharing highlights from DAWN’s gala soon. Stay tuned.