A media group linked to Islamic State (ISIS) has released a shocking propaganda poster depicting Pope Francis being beheaded, amid fears of terrorist attacks in Europe during this Christmas period. 

The image shows a terrorist standing over the torso of a prisoner dressed in an orange jumpsuit while holding the head of the Pope.

The jihadist is seen wearing a white scarf and khaki, with several damaged and destroyed buildings in the background. Next to the Pope's head is written 'Jorge Mario Bergoglio' - Pope Francis' birth name.

The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) has reported that the image was produced by the Wafa Media Foundation, a propaganda outfit with links to ISIS.

The release of the image comes just days after the group circulated another poster depicting a man driving a car towards St Peter's Basilica in Rome, warning of a Christmas terror attack at the Vatican.

Expert observers have warned that the terror group may see the Christmas period as a time to step up so-called 'lone wolf' attacks in Europe while its self-proclaimed state collapses in Iraq and Syria.

Last December, a terrorist linked to ISIS drove a truck into a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 11 people and injuring 56.

At the beginning of this month, on All Saints Day this year, Pope Francis prayed for the victims of recent attacks throughout the world, saying: 'We ask the Lord to convert the hearts of terrorists and free the world from hatred and homicidal folly that abuses the name of God, spreading death.'

The Pope regularly prays for the victims of terrorist attacks as well as other tragedies around the world.