The U.S. embassy in Honduras Friday called on all political forces in the country to resolve through peaceful dialogue the current crisis arising from the military coup six days ago.

"We call on all political and social groups to use dialogue to lift Honduras out of the constitutional crisis in which it currently finds itself, using peaceful, balanced and democratic means within the rule of law and without recourse of violence," the embassy said in a statement.

It also expressed "profound concern at the restrictions placed by the authorities on fundamental civil rights and reports of intimidation practiced on individuals and media."

Honduras' military seized President Manuel Zelaya from his bed early Sunday morning and forced him to board a plane to Costa Rica, a move widely condemned by multilateral organizations. No nation has recognized the caretaker government, appointed just hours later, led by former legislature president, Roberto Micheletti.

"We pray that all the Honduran family unifies in peace, harmony and mutual respect to solve the current problems," the U.S. embassy said.

"There is no chance of moving the country forward along the path of democracy if people have restricted access to information or do not have the right to express their opinions without fear of reprisals," it added.

The embassy also welcomed the mediation of Jose Miguel Insulza, the secretary general of the Organization of American States (OAS), who arrived in Honduras Friday noon.

The Washington-based OAS has given Honduras' interim government until Saturday to reinstate Zelaya or be suspended from the 34-member group.

Source: Xinhua