Editing Openai/68cb1119-3ba8-800a-9fe6-77c5599d54ad (section)

== gpt-5 ==
=== User: What is the current relationship between Judaism and the LDS Church? ===
What is the current relationship between Judaism and the LDS Church?

=== Assistant: Here’s a summary of how Judaism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints LDS Church, i.e. ===
Here’s a summary of how Judaism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church, i.e. “Mormonism”) currently relate — theologically, socially, and in practice — including areas of cooperation and tension. If you like, I can also focus on particular Jewish denominations or regions.

==== 1. Shared heritage & covenant language - The LDS Church teaches that it is part of the House of Israel and that the Jewish people remain “God’s chosen people.” LDS doctrine places great importance on the covenants made with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Israel, and sees modern Latter-day Saints (often through the “tribe of Ephraim / Joseph”) sharing in that covenantal heritage. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - The LDS Church anticipates that the Jewish people will one day rebuild a temple in Jerusalem and re-restore certain Mosaic practices, within the framework of LDS eschatology. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
# Differences in belief about Jesus / Messiah / Scripture - Judaism rejects the Christian (including LDS) claim that Jesus is the Messiah or that He fulfilled prophetic expectations in Jewish scripture. LDS theology, by contrast, includes belief in Jesus Christ as central. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Some LDS beliefs (e.g. prophets, continuing revelation, priesthood, other scripture beyond the Hebrew Bible) are not accepted by Judaism. These differences remain fundamental. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# Supersession, inclusion, and interpretation - There is a range of views within LDS scholarship and among members regarding how “the gathering of Israel” and Jewish chosenness relates to Gentiles who join LDS belief. Some see this as inclusive rather than supersessionist (i.e. not that the LDS Church replaces Judaism), though the theological dynamics are complex. BYU Studies<ref>{{cite web|title=BYU Studies|url=https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/jews-in-lds-thought-a-bibliographic-essay|publisher=BYU Studies|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>

==== 1. Respect, cooperation, and interfaith work - The LDS Church has stated commitments to religious freedom, tolerance, and cooperation with other faiths, including Judaism. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/interfaith|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - In many places, LDS congregations and Jewish communities engage in shared humanitarian efforts, dialogue about religious freedom, and efforts to foster understanding. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/interfaith|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
# Controversies / tensions, especially around posthumous ordinances - One recurring tension is the LDS practice of “baptism for the dead” (posthumous or proxy baptisms). Jewish groups have objected when names of Jewish individuals (especially Holocaust victims) are submitted without authorization. The LDS Church has made agreements and policies to address concerns. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/religious-freedom-allows-both-mormons-and-jews-to-honor-their-ancestors|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Another disagreed area is missionary work — LDS Church proselytizing is accepted by many Christians but can be seen differently by Jewish communities. While LDS missionaries generally focus on many faiths and people, attempts to proselytize Jews often touch deep theological sensitivities. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# Shared interest in Israel / the Holy Land - The LDS Church has institutions in Israel (e.g. congregations in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Be’er Sheva) and academic / educational presences, such as the BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. These create points of interaction. Wikipedia<ref>{{cite web|title=Wikipedia|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_and_Mormonism|publisher=en.wikipedia.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Orson Hyde (an LDS leader in the church’s early history) famously dedicated the land of Palestine / Jerusalem in 1841, praying for the return of the Jews. LDS theology includes support for the gathering of the Jews to Jerusalem. Tikvah Ideas<ref>{{cite web|title=Tikvah Ideas|url=https://ideas.tikvah.org/mosaic/essays/responses/the-complicated-relationship-between-mormons-and-jews?welcome=mosaic|publisher=Tikvah Ideas|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>

==== - Surveys suggest that Latter-day Saints are among the more “pro-Jewish” faith communities in the U.S. (in terms of favorability, respect, etc.). timesandseasons.org<ref>{{cite web|title=timesandseasons.org|url=https://timesandseasons.org/index.php/2025/04/latter-day-saints-love-jews/|publisher=timesandseasons.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
* There is increasing scholarly and theological reflection within LDS circles about how to understand “Israel,” “chosenness,” and how LDS theology relates to Jewish identity. Some challenge older frameworks (e.g. strictly blood-line or literal descent) and emphasize spiritual or covenantal ties. BYU Studies<ref>{{cite web|title=BYU Studies|url=https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/jews-in-lds-thought-a-bibliographic-essay|publisher=BYU Studies|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
* On the Jewish side, while many individuals are open to engagement, institutional Jewish responses vary: from cooperation (especially around issues like religious freedom, Holocaust remembrance, shared values) to concern or critique especially when it comes to missionary efforts or issues like proxy baptisms.

==== - Proxy baptisms of Jews, especially deceased ones, remain one of the biggest flashpoints. Jewish groups have been clear about their objections, and the LDS Church has responded with adjustments. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/religious-freedom-allows-both-mormons-and-jews-to-honor-their-ancestors|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
* The theological differences over the identity of the Messiah, revelation, and scripture are not going away, and can lead to misunderstandings or discomfort in interfaith settings.
* The language of “chosen people” or “gathering of Israel,” while intended in LDS theology to affirm Jewish identity, can sometimes be perceived as undermining Judaism’s own continuity or as implying a role for LDS members that overshadows Jewish belief.

If you like, I can give you a breakdown for specific Jewish denominations (Orthodox, Conservative, Reform) or in specific countries (Israel, U.S., etc.), because the relationship looks a bit different depending on context. Do you want me to do that?

=== User: "re-restore certain Mosaic practices, within the framework of LDS eschatology." Can you elaborate on this? ===
"re-restore certain Mosaic practices, within the framework of LDS eschatology." Can you elaborate on this?

=== Assistant: In Latter-day Saint LDS eschatology, several prophetic passages—especially in the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and Doctri… ===
In Latter-day Saint (LDS) eschatology, several prophetic passages—especially in the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants—are interpreted to mean that some elements of ancient Israelite worship will return in the last days as part of preparing for Christ’s millennial reign. Here’s what “re-restore certain Mosaic practices” generally refers to:

===== - Prophecies: LDS scripture and teachings cite passages like Ezekiel 40–48 and Zechariah 14 about a future temple in Jerusalem. =====
* Function: This temple would serve a sacred role for the Jewish people and for world worship. LDS leaders teach that Jesus will reign from Jerusalem during the Millennium, and temple worship—drawing on Mosaic patterns—will be central.
* Distinctiveness: This is separate from LDS temples elsewhere (e.g., Salt Lake City) and is envisioned as a Jewish temple under Jewish administration, though part of God’s overarching plan.

===== - Animal Sacrifices Temporarily Resumed: Joseph Smith taught that some animal sacrifices would be offered again, but not as permanent ordinances—rather, as symbolic acts to fulfill prophecy and “restore all things” (Doctrine and Covenants 13:1; History of the Church 4:211). =====
* Purpose: These offerings would serve as a commemorative witness to earlier covenants and would soon be superseded by Christ’s completed atonement, after which the primary “sacrifice” expected of believers would remain a broken heart and contrite spirit (3 Nephi 9:20).

===== - Aaronic/Levitical Priesthood Roles: LDS theology holds that the Aaronic Priesthood is a continuation of the ancient Levitical authority. In the Millennium, there may be a re-implementation of Levitical duties—such as offerings of firstfruits or ritual cleansings—in a symbolic, fulfilled form. =====
* Feasts and Festivals: Some LDS commentators suggest that observances like the Feast of Tabernacles or Passover could be celebrated to honor God’s past dealings with Israel and to teach millennial nations about His covenants (see Zechariah 14:16-19).

===== - Gathering Theme: The LDS Church teaches that Jews physically returning to Jerusalem and Gentiles joining the covenant are part of the “gathering of Israel.” =====
* Two-Temple Expectation: In LDS eschatology, there are two focal points—Jerusalem (for the Jews) and the New Jerusalem in America (for the gathered Saints). The Mosaic elements restored in Jerusalem affirm God’s promises to Israel, while LDS-specific temple ordinances continue elsewhere.

===== - LDS leaders (e.g., Bruce R. McConkie) have emphasized that these restored practices are temporary teaching symbols, not a return to full Mosaic law. The Atonement of Christ remains the ultimate and final sacrifice; Mosaic elements would only be used to demonstrate continuity with Israel’s covenants before fading as all nations accept Christ’s direct reign. =====

In summary: LDS eschatology envisions that, before and during the Millennium, a Jerusalem temple will be rebuilt, some Mosaic-style sacrifices and festivals will be briefly reinstated, and Levitical priesthood functions may return—not to re-impose the full Law of Moses, but to fulfill prophecy, honor ancient covenants with Israel, and prepare the world for Christ’s reign.

Confidence rating: 9/10 — This is consistent with LDS canonical texts, Joseph Smith’s teachings, and statements by LDS scholars. Minor details vary among LDS authorities and scholars, so exact interpretations are not uniform.

=== User: ...Jesus Christ. ===
...Jesus ''Christ.''

=== Assistant: Right—Jesus Christ is explicitly who LDS teachings say will reign during the Millennium and under whom those restored M… ===
Right—Jesus Christ is explicitly who LDS teachings say will reign during the Millennium and under whom those restored Mosaic elements would be briefly observed. Latter-day Saint scripture and leaders are very clear that the rebuilt Jerusalem temple and any temporary sacrifices or festivals are to honor God’s covenants under the lordship of Jesus Christ, not a return to pre-Christian law.

Confidence rating: 10/10 — The LDS Church consistently identifies Jesus Christ as central to its eschatology and millennial expectations.

=== User: Are there any other religions, Christian or not, that have any similar teachings about the Jews being God's chosen peop… ===
Are there any other religions, Christian or not, that have any similar teachings about the Jews being God's chosen people?

=== Assistant: Yes. ===
Yes. Several faiths—both within Christianity and outside it—teach that the Jewish people retain a special, covenantal role with God. Here’s a concise survey:

==== ### ====
* Teaching: Vatican II’s Nostra Aetate (1965) explicitly affirmed that God “does not repent of the gifts He makes or of the calls He issues” (Romans 11:28-29), meaning the Jewish covenant remains valid.
* View: Judaism retains a unique place in salvation history, even though Catholics see Jesus as Messiah.

===== - Teaching: Similar to Catholicism—Jews are acknowledged as the original chosen people, and their scriptures are revered. There’s less formal doctrinal development post-Vatican II, but Orthodox theologians reference Paul’s letter to the Romans to affirm Israel’s continuing role. =====

===== - Reformed/Traditional Protestantism: Historically some strands leaned toward supersessionism (the Church “replaces” Israel), but many modern Protestant theologians reject this, affirming God’s covenant with the Jews remains. =====
* Evangelical & Dispensationalist Groups: Many evangelicals—especially dispensationalists—emphasize a future restoration of Israel and a millennial kingdom centered in Jerusalem, closely paralleling LDS expectations (e.g., rebuilt temple, regathering of Jews).
* Christian Zionist Movements: Actively support the modern State of Israel as fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

==== ### ====
* Teaching: The Qur’an calls the Children of Israel (Bani Isra’il) God’s chosen at certain times (e.g., Qur’an 2:47), acknowledging their prophetic heritage.
* Nuance: Later verses critique Israel for disobedience, but many Islamic scholars maintain respect for Jews as “People of the Book” with a divinely granted history.

==== - Jehovah’s Witnesses: Teach that the Jews were once God’s chosen people, but now spiritual Israel consists of faithful Christians; however, they still honor the original covenant’s significance. ====
* Seventh-day Adventists: Similar to many Protestants, they see prophecies about Israel as typological, but many Adventists affirm God’s continuing concern for the Jewish people.
* Some smaller Christian sects (e.g., certain Messianic groups): Explicitly affirm ongoing Jewish chosenness and expect end-time fulfillment centered on Israel.

==== - Baha’i Faith: Sees Judaism as a legitimate earlier revelation from God, with Jews as the recipients of a divine covenant, though Baha’is teach that God has continued to reveal Himself through later prophets (Jesus, Muhammad, Bahá’u’lláh). ====
* Some modern interfaith or esoteric groups: Occasionally adopt language of Israel’s chosenness symbolically, but these are usually peripheral or syncretic movements.

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Confidence rating: 9/10 — These summaries align with official documents (e.g., Nostra Aetate, Qur’an passages), mainstream theological positions, and recognized scholarship. Some nuances vary by denomination or scholar, so details may differ within each tradition.

=== User: Has the LDS church released any statements on the happenings between Israel and the Palestinians? ===
Has the LDS church released any statements on the happenings between Israel and the Palestinians?

=== Assistant: Yes — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released several statements related to the conflict between I… ===
Yes — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released several statements related to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, especially in response to recent escalations. Here are key examples and what they say, plus some notes on what the Church has done more broadly.

==== 1. “First Presidency Issues Statement on Middle East Violence” — October 12, 2023 - The LDS Church’s highest leadership expressed devastation over the violence in the Middle East, saying that violence of that nature was “abhorrent to us and is not in harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is a gospel of peace.” newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - They emphasized love for one’s neighbor and called for a peaceful resolution of conflicts. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
# Humanitarian Aid Statement — November 6, 2023 - The Church announced that it was working with international relief agencies in both Gaza and Israel. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - They committed significant financial resources for medical and mental health care, among other urgent needs, to help alleviate suffering wherever it is found. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# Caring Summary 2024 — Middle East - In its 2024 “Caring Summary,” the Church detailed work throughout the Middle East, including collaborating with relief agencies in Gaza and Israel to provide medical/mental health support, as well as food, water, hygiene items, etc. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/caring/annual-summary/the-middle-east?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - The Church reports work in displaced-person contexts and other vulnerable populations affected by the conflict. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/caring/annual-summary/the-middle-east?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>

==== - What they affirm: - A strong condemnation (broadly stated) of violence and loss of life on all sides. - A commitment to humanitarian relief — helping with urgent physical, medical, and mental health needs. - A call for peace, love, and neighborliness in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ. ====
'' What they tend ''not* to do: - They generally avoid assigning blame explicitly to one party over another. - They don’t endorse particular political solutions (e.g. two-state solution, territorial lines), at least not in those public statements. - They don’t provide detailed policy advocacy in international politics; the tone is more humanitarian and spiritual rather than political.

If you want, I can pull up the most recent statements (after 2023) and see whether the Church has changed or expanded its position more recently. Do you want me to do that?

=== User: Yeah, let's search from then until now. ===
Yeah, let's search from then until now. Any updates, or re-issuing of the same position?

=== Assistant: I searched, and I didn’t find any new or substantially different statements from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-d… ===
I searched, and I didn’t find any new or substantially different statements from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since late 2023 addressing the Israel/Palestinian situation. What I did find mostly confirms that the Church has maintained a consistent line: calling for peace, providing humanitarian aid, expressing sadness at violence, but stopping short of taking sides or endorsing specific political solutions. Here’s a breakdown of what I found (through mid-2025) and what remains unchanged.

==== 1. Caring Summary 2024 — Middle East (March 2025) - The Church published its “Caring Summary 2024 — Middle East,” which reports on its relief efforts in the region. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/caring/annual-summary/the-middle-east?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - It mentions specific collaboration with international relief agencies in Gaza and Israel to provide medical and mental health care, food, water, hygiene items, and other assistance for internally displaced persons. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/caring/annual-summary/the-middle-east?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Also reports work in Lebanon, Yemen, Sudan, etc., showing a broad humanitarian focus. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/caring/annual-summary/the-middle-east?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
# Humanitarian Aid Statement (November 6, 2023) - The Church stated that it is actively devoting financial resources via partnerships to help people in need in both Gaza and Israel. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - No change in tone: it’s not a political judgment but relief-and-compassion focused. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# Original First Presidency Statement (October 2023) - “First Presidency Issues Statement on Middle East Violence.” Expression of devastation, condemnation of violence in general as being out of harmony with the gospel of Christ, sympathy for victims, and prayers for peace. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>

==== - There is no more recent statement (beyond these aid/peace‐calls) that assigns blame more explicitly or supports one side over another in terms of policy, territorial claims, or political actions (as of my latest sources up to early/mid-2025). ====
* The Church hasn’t issued new doctrinal views in response to the conflict that differ significantly from its existing theological framework.
* No indication that there has been a shift toward endorsing political resolutions (e.g. two-state solution) or advocating for particular parties. The statements remain general calls for peace, relief, compassion.

==== - The Church appears to prefer remaining neutral in political terms, especially internationally. Its public communications focus on humanitarian aid and on universal Christian values (peace, love, compassion, neighbor-love). ====
* By continuing to provide aid to both Israelis and Palestinians in need, the Church is upholding what seems to be its consistent policy: helping those suffering, regardless of political or national identity.
* The repetition of similar themes (sadness over violence, no endorsement of one side, call for peace) suggests that the position is stable — it’s neither expanding into more explicit political commentary nor retreating from its statements of universal compassion.

If you want, I can try to dig into internal LDS publications (speeches, regional church statements) to see if there are statements less publicized that show subtler shifts or emphases. Would you like me to do that?

=== User: What are the last few things the Church has said about the modern nation of Israel? ===
What are the last few things the Church has said about the modern nation of Israel?

=== Assistant: I searched for what the LDS Church has said most recently about the modern nation of Israel, and here’s a summary of re… ===
I searched for what the LDS Church has said most recently about the modern nation of Israel, and here’s a summary of relevant statements and what they do and don’t say. I did not find a formal, detailed policy statement explicitly about the modern State of Israel (its borders, governance, etc.) beyond general statements in connection with the Middle East conflict. If you like, I can also check LDS regional / foreign offices for more nuanced remarks.

==== 1. First Presidency Statement on Middle East Violence (Oct. 12, 2023) - The Church expressed that it is “devastated by the recent eruption of violence and loss of life in the Middle East.” newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - It condemned violence generally (“abhorrent to us”) as being out of harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ, which the Church describes as “a gospel of peace.” newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - It did not make political declarations about nation-state boundaries, who is “right” or “wrong,” or endorse any particular side. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-statement-middle-east-violence|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> ====
# Church Humanitarian Aid in the Middle East Conflict (Nov. 6, 2023) - The Church is working with international relief agencies in both Gaza and Israel to help those suffering—especially with medical and mental-health care, food, water, hygiene, etc. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - The aid is described as where need is found, without specifying political alignment. newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org<ref>{{cite web|title=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-humanitarian-aid-middle-east-conflict|publisher=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# “How We Gather Israel Today” (2021) - This article reiterates LDS theological teachings about the “gathering of Israel,” seeing it as spiritual / covenantal as well as literal in some senses. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2021/12/how-we-gather-israel-today?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - It emphasizes that through missionary work, temple work, and family history work, people are being “gathered” into the covenant people. Patriarchal blessings are cited as part of declaring one’s lineage in the House of Israel. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2021/12/how-we-gather-israel-today?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Importantly, this is theological / spiritual rather than political; it does not by itself comment on modern Israeli politics or policies. The Church of Jesus Christ<ref>{{cite web|title=The Church of Jesus Christ|url=https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2021/12/how-we-gather-israel-today?lang=eng|publisher=The Church of Jesus Christ|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>
# Invitations by President Nelson (General Conference, April 2024) - Among other spiritual invitations, President Russell M. Nelson has asked church members to reflect on the gathering of Israel as evidence of God’s love for “all of His children everywhere.” Church News<ref>{{cite web|title=Church News|url=https://www.thechurchnews.com/2022/1/13/23218668/president-nelson-invitations-prophet-gather-israel-hear-him-covenant-path/|publisher=Church News|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref> - Again, this is framed in a spiritual sense—not as a political or diplomatic statement about the State of Israel. Church News<ref>{{cite web|title=Church News|url=https://www.thechurchnews.com/2022/1/13/23218668/president-nelson-invitations-prophet-gather-israel-hear-him-covenant-path/|publisher=Church News|access-date=2025-12-20}}</ref>

==== - There is no recent formal statement from the Church leadership specifically addressing the modern State of Israel’s political status, its policies, or its government in detail (e.g. settlements, borders, rights of Palestinians, etc.). ====
* The Church has not explicitly affirmed or rejected “Zionism” or taken a position on particular political solutions (such as two-state vs one-state) in publicly recognized doctrine or statements.
* The language used tends to avoid assigning blame to one party or another; it’s more about condemning violence, promoting peace and compassion, relief / aid, and spiritual unity.

==== From what is publicly available: ====
* The LDS Church appears to take a neutral political stance with respect to Israel/Palestinian territorial/policy conflicts, preferring not to wade into controversial geo-political territory in its official statements.
* Its approach is more aligned with humanitarian concern, moral condemnation of violence, and a spiritual framework (gathering of Israel, etc.).
* Because of its theology, the Church continues to see Israel in a covenantal and prophetic sense, but that does not translate into detailed political or diplomatic engagement in its public messaging.

If you want, I can try to find whether there are internal or less public LDS statements (e.g. from regional leaders, or in Church magazines outside the U.S.) that make more explicit mention of the modern State of Israel in recent times. Do you want me to check that?