US President Donald Trump has outlined his "strongly pro-life" views on abortion amid controversy over strict new laws passed in several states.

Mr Trump said he was against abortion except in cases of rape, incest or a "serious health risk" to the mother.

His stance on what is a divisive election issue in the US emerged days after Alabama passed a law banning abortion in almost all cases.

A pro-choice rally is planned later on Sunday in protest at the new measures.

Supporters of Alabama's abortion ban say they expect the law to be blocked in court, but hope that the appeals process will bring it before the US Supreme Court.

They want the highest court in the land - which now has a conservative majority - to overturn the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling making abortion a right across the US.

Sixteen other states are also seeking to impose new restrictions on abortion.