The International Red Cross now distributing relief aid to people who have fled the stricken Baba Amr district in the Syrian city of Homs, but is still blocked from entering the former rebel stronghold.
The agency said on Sunday it had begun to hand out food and blankets to people who had fled Baba Amr to nearby areas.
Syrian officials say Baba Amr has to be cleared of booby traps, but rebels said the troops were carrying out reprisal attacks. Mass arrests are also reported.
The Red Cross said it did not know how serious the situation was in Baba Amr.
State TV has been broadcasting pictures of deserted streets laden with debris.