OAS condemns Honduran coup

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, July 1 (UPI) -- The Organization of American States has condemned the military coup that led to the ouster of Honduran President Manuel Zelaya.

The resolution passed Wednesday calls for "diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring democracy and the rule of law and the reinstatement" of Zelaya's government.

The OAS said it would suspend Honduras's membership in the hemispheric group if Zelaya isn't restored to power within three days.

The resolution follows Tuesday's unanimous vote at the U.N. General Assembly calling for Zelaya to be returned to power.

Meanwhile, the provisional government of Honduras also announced Tuesday it would arrest the ousted leader if he returns to the country. He was sent into exile in neighboring Costa Rica.

The Honduran foreign minister told CNN Espanol Tuesday Zelaya would face several charges.

Military troops arrested Zelaya Sunday before a proposed referendum on presidential term limits. Zelaya wanted to seek a second term next year. By law, the Honduran leader, elected in 2005, is limited to one term in office.

Zelaya was in New York Tuesday to address the United Nations and ask for its assistance. He said he would return to Honduras Thursday.