The Pulitzer Prizes, pivotal in recognizing excellence in journalism and the arts, are scheduled for an announcement this Monday. The event, celebrating notable contributions from 2023, will be livestreamed at 3 p.m. Eastern time. This year, the awards spotlight journalistic efforts covering major events, including the recent conflict in Gaza and the attack on Israel, with specific attention on the dangers faced by journalists in these zones. A notable change in this year’s Pulitzers is the inclusion of broadcast and audio companies that operate digital news sites as well as the incorporation of artificial intelligence in research and reporting. The awards, first established in 1917 and administered by Columbia University, intend to acknowledge and promote distinguished journalism.

In a separate development, the Stormont Assembly is set to debate an urgent motion for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and southern Israel. This motion, led by the SDLP and presented amidst ongoing conflict since October 2023, condemns the violence executed by both Israel and Hamas. It calls for the cessation of hostilities, release of hostages, and supports a two-state solution, recognising Palestine as a state. This debate aligns with efforts to urge UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to cease weapon sales to Israel during the continuing conflict, underlining the critical state of affairs in the region and the Assembly’s role in advocating for peace and stability.