"We will continue to exert these diplomatic and political efforts with good intention to resolve this crisis caused by a terrorist organisation," Babacan told reporters after talks with his Kuwaiti counterpart.

"But in the end, if we don't reach a result, there are other means that we may be forced to use," the minister said, referring to preparations by the Turkish army to attack rebels from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in Iraq.

Babacan said Turkey will continue to favour a diplomatic solution despite being authorised by the government to use force. However, the military option would be used if such efforts failed, he added.

"After parliament issued the authorisation, it does not mean that we have to use it. We, in fact, favour finding solutions through diplomatic means and dialogue," he said.

"But, it must be known that if it becomes necessary, we will not hesitate to use the authorisation," Babacan said.