RPT-OAS delivers 72-hour ultimatum to Honduras

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WASHINGTON, July 1 (Reuters) - Members of the Organization of American States gave the interim government in Honduras 72 hours to reinstate democracy or face possible suspension in a resolution approved on Wednesday.

The OAS condemned the coup that ousted President Manuel Zelaya on Sunday and demanded the "immediate, safe, and unconditional return of the president to his constitutional functions."

It declared that "no government arising from this unconstitutional interruption will be recognized."

It instructed OAS chief Jose Miguel Insulza to undertake "diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring democracy and the rule of law and the reinstatement" of Zelaya.

"Should these prove unsuccessful within 72 hours, the Special General Assembly shall forthwith ... suspend Honduras' membership," the resolution said.

Zelaya vowed on Tuesday to return to Honduras flanked by foreign leaders to serve out his term, defying a warning from the government that ousted him that he faces immediate arrest.

The OAS resolution was read out at a special session of the organization to discuss the Honduras situation that was attended by Zelaya. (Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Eric Walsh)