The Obama administration reportedly is preparing a new round of sanctions on Iran, this one aimed at preventing foreign investment in the country's petrochemical sector. 

The development comes after the U.N. nuclear watchdog issued a report earlier this month claiming Iran appeared to be pursuing nuclear weapons technology despite Tehran's claims that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. The International Atomic Energy Agency also formally chastised Iran with a resolution Friday, a move welcomed by the White House. 

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said earlier that the U.S. would increase pressure on Iran to abandon its drive for a nuclear bomb, without providing details. 

But sources reportedly have confirmed the U.S. is now looking to unveil new sanctions as early as Monday. According to Reuters, the Obama administration is looking to bar foreign firms from investing in Iran's petrochemical industry. Such sanctions would be along the lines of past restrictions on Iran's oil and gas sectors.