Turkey considers buffer zone to defend borders against Islamic State

Turkey could establish a buffer zone to defend its borders with Iraq and Syria from Islamic State (IS) militants, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.

After a trip to Qatar Erdogan told journalists the Turkish army is now developing the plan which will have to be inspected by the government, according to the Daily Sabah.

Ankara will then have the final say as to whether a buffer zone is needed, Erdogan added, refusing to comment further.

Turkey is still looking for a way to secure the release of its 49 citizens held hostage by IS.

Commenting on intentions of the US, the EU and some Arab States to take up joint actions against the insurgents, Erdogan stressed Turkey would provide strategic cooperation to Washington, but will stop short of anything beyond humanitarian actions.