Eta warns Spanish government, stands by ceasefire

BILBAO, Spain - Armed Basque group ETA has warned the Spanish government future generations will be ready to fight if "oppression" continues, but that it will stand by its three-month-old ceasefire.

"Have no doubt, if the current situation of oppression and infringement of rights continues, new generations will join the fight responding with force against those who forcibly maintain this unjust situation," Eta said in a statement addressed to the Spanish public.

"Eta reaffirms its decision to call a permanent ceasefire, effective since March 24."

The statement comes a day after Spanish and French police arrested 12 suspected Eta guerrillas in the biggest operation against the Basque separatists since the ceasefire was declared.