The relative calm of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has come to an abrupt end with Israel launching dozens of attacks on targets across the Gaza Strip.

Israel said the early Tuesday attacks were launched after Hamas refused to release more hostages held in Gaza.

Israel launched airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, killing at least 235 Palestinians, including women and children, according to hospital officials. The surprise bombardment threatened to wreck the ceasefire in place since January and fully reignite the 17-month-old war.