WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 -- The U.S. strongly supported democratic institutions and the democratic process in Thailand, a long-time friend and ally, the State Department said in a statement Monday.

The statement came after Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra announced the dissolution of the lower house of the country's Parliament and called for early elections to try to defuse the country's deepening political crisis.

"Prime Minister Yingluck has called for elections as a way forward amid ongoing political tensions and demonstrations," State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said in the statement.

Since the latest unrest in Thailand broke out last month, confrontations between supporters of government and anti- government protesters have turned violent. At least three people were killed and 127 more injured in one clash at Ramkhamhaeng University in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, on Dec. 2.

"We encourage all involved to resolve political differences peacefully and democratically in a way that reflects the will of the Thai people and strengthens the rule of law," Psaki said.