WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 -- The United States is deeply concerned by renewed violence in the Central African Republic (CAR) and is weighing "targeted" sanctions against those responsible for fueling conflict, said Secretary of State John Kerry Monday.

"The United States is prepared to consider targeted sanctions against those who further destabilize the situation in the CAR, or pursue their own selfish ends by abetting or encouraging the violence," Kerry said in a statement.

The U.S. will continue to work with its international partners to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities committed in the CAR, said Kerry, adding that the U.S. is "deeply disturbed" by reports that some CAR leaders may be supporting violence.

"We urge CAR's past and present political leaders ...to call on their supporters to cease any and all attacks on civilians," Kerry said, who also called on neighboring countries to ensure that no arms or other support to armed groups are allowed to cross into the CAR.

The U.S. condemns attacks by both anti-Balaka and Seleka groups in the CAR capital Bangui and the provinces, said Kerry, following a fresh wave of violence in the strife-torn country.

The selection of a transitional government offers the people of CAR an opportunity to "rebuild their society and restore their tradition of tolerance", Kerry added.

Catherine Samba-Panza, the former mayor of Bangui, was elected a week ago as the transitional president of the CAR.

The former transitional president Michel Djotodia and prime minister Nicolas Tiangaye stepped down in early January following months of violence that had killed more than 3,000 people.