During his recent visit to Belgium, Pope Francis sparked controversy by labeling doctors who perform abortions as 'outright hitmen,' raising concerns about the potential for inciting hatred.

In his remarks, the pope praised King Boudewijn for his historical opposition to the legalization of abortion, notably abdicating for a day in 1990 to avoid signing the legislation.

The pope's statements have been interpreted as a potential diplomatic incident, especially in light of Belgium's recent legislative move to extend abortion deadlines, which reflects a scientific consensus on the issue.

In response to the pope's comments, Jan Danckaert, the rector of the Brussels Free University (VUB), along with UZ Brussel hospital, is calling for accountability from the Belgian government.

Rector Danckaert emphasized that the pope's remarks not only insult medical professionals but also undermine the Belgian populace and its democratic laws.

The backlash against Pope Francis's statements has been significant, with VUB and UZ Brussel seeking diplomatic action against Monsignor Franco Coppola, the papal nuncio in Belgium.

Upon his return to the Vatican, Pope Francis reiterated his view that abortion is murder, further intensifying the controversy by referring to doctors who perform abortions as 'assassins.'