Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed at least 200 people, Palestinian health authorities said, as attacks hit dozens of targets early Tuesday, ending a weekslong standoff over extending the ceasefire that halted fighting in January.

Strikes were reported in multiple locations, including northern Gaza, Gaza City and the Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis and Rafah in central and southern Gaza Strip. Palestinian health ministry officials said many of the dead were children.

The Israeli military, which said it hit dozens of targets, said the strikes would continue for as long as necessary and would extend beyond airstrikes, raising the prospect that Israeli ground troops could resume fighting.