It is estimated 200,000 civilians have fled fighting in the biggest Syrian city of Aleppo.

Many are seeking refuge in neighbouring countries.

The opposition Syrian National Council has accused the government of preparing to carry out “massacres” in the northern city.

They have pleaded for heavy weapons to enable rebels to meet the regime onslaught.

The US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta has warned the Syrian government that if it continues to attack its own people it will be a nail in the coffin of President Bashar al-Assad.

Rebel forces have pleaded for heavy weapons to help in the fight against the Assad regime.

Foreign Affairs Correspondent with the Irish Times Mary Fitzgerald is in the Aleppo province.

Speaking to Breakfast here on Newstalk she says fighting is set to intensify there this week.