Christian Friis Bach has attracted attention with his views on the Gaza conflict, which differ from the mainstream position of his new party, Venstre (the Liberal Party). Following the terrorist attack in Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed approximately 1,200 lives, he has openly questioned Israel’s military response. Bach, a former foreign policy spokesperson and defense spokesperson for the Radikale Venstre (the Social Liberal Party), has previously suggested that Denmark recognize Palestine as an independent state.

In a recent podcast by B.T. (a Danish tabloid), Bach criticized Israel’s decision for military retaliation against the terrorist attack and instead proposed using sanctions and international legal mechanisms against the responsible terrorists. This viewpoint contrasts with Venstre’s position, which has maintained support for Israel’s right to self-defense without necessarily advocating for military action.

Despite these differences, Bach asserts that there is not a significant political divide between his stance and that of Venstre. He emphasizes that he supports Venstre’s policies as a member, although he personally favors a different approach. Additionally, he mentions that Venstre plans to support a Palestinian state in the future, but believes that this requires a solid democratic foundation, which he feels is currently lacking.

Bach’s shift to Venstre followed disappointment that Radikale Venstre was not included in the current government, despite intense negotiations. Venstre has welcomed him, and group leader Lars Christian Lilleholt has expressed pleasure at Bach’s joining. Lilleholt praised him as a serious and solution-oriented politician, raising hopes for constructive cooperation in the future.

Thus, while Christian Friis Bach’s opinions do not always align perfectly with those of Venstre, both parties appear to focus on shared goals and pragmatic solutions.