Pope Francis called laws legalising abortion “murderous” and “criminal” during a visit to the tomb of the Belgian King Baudouin.

The King chose to temporarily abdicate the throne rather than sign a law legalising abortion in 1990. He ruled from 1951 until his death in 1993 at the age of 63.

On his flight back to Rome, Pope Francis repeated that the choice of King Baudouin to abdicate for three days in order not to sign a “law of death” was “courageous” and exceptional, adding that the Catholic king was able to do this because he was holy. “The process of beatification will go forward because they gave me proof of this,” he said.

“Women have a right to life, to their life, and to the life of their children. Let’s not forget to say this,” the pontiff continued.

“An abortion is a homicide. … it kills a human being. The doctors who carry this out are hitmen … And on this there is no debate.”

Pope Francis’ comments on abortion come as Belgium discusses whether to extend the country’s legal limit of abortion, which is up to the 12th week of pregnancy for any reason.