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The Pentagon is moving forces closer to Syria as the US weighs its options in the conflict there, Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel has suggested, according to BBC. 

He gave no details, but media reports say the US Navy is strengthening its presence in the eastern Mediterranean.

On Friday, President Barack Obama said fresh allegations of chemical weapons use by the Syrian government this week was of "grave concern."

Syria's main ally Russia said there was evidence rebels were behind the attack.

The Syrian opposition, however, has said hundreds died in a government assault outside Damascus on Wednesday.

Despite calls from many different countries, there is no sign yet that the Syrian authorities will allow a UN inspection team to visit to investigate the claims.

Unverified footage shows civilians - many of them children - dead or suffering from what appear to be horrific symptoms as a result of the attack.

Mr Hagel said President Obama had asked the Pentagon for options on Syria, amid rising pressure on the US to intervene.

"The Defence Department has responsibility to provide the president with options for all contingencies," he said.

"That requires positioning our forces, positioning our assets, to be able to carry out different options - whatever options the president might choose."