The United States said on Monday it was surprised by the resignation of Egypt's government and would continue to push for a transition process that led to a democratically elected government in the country.
"This step was unexpected, so we are looking to obtain information on it," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told a regular news briefing.
Egypt's government resigned earlier on Monday, paving the way for army chief Field Marshal Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to declare his candidacy for president of the strategic US ally.
"Our focus … remains on pressing and encouraging Egypt to take steps forward that will advance an inclusive transition process that leads to a democratic civilian-led government selected through a credible and transparent elections process," Psaki said.
Washington is watching the situation closely and seeking details from Egyptian counterparts, she said.
In a live nationwide speech, Prime Minister Hazem al-Beblawy, who was tasked by interim President Adly Mansour to run the government's affairs until the election, did not give a clear reason for the decision.
