Why is ISIL targeting Turkey?

Massacre at Istanbul nightclub claimed by armed group based abroad signifies growing security challenges in the country.

Turkish authorities started 2017 the way much of 2016 had played out, with a manhunt.

Thirty-nine people were killed and many others wounded in an attack on a popular nightclub in Istanbul that has been claimed by ISIL.

The bells had not long finished chiming to herald in the New Year when they were replaced by the sound of gunfire.

Turkey was targeted in dozens of attacks last year, most of which were claimed by ISIL.