Flash flooding leads to the deaths of at least 29 people near Istanbul, Turkey, as the area struggles with its heaviest rainfall in 80 years. Many stranded drivers wait for rescue teams after flooding blocks a major highway.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown helps initiate a raid on Taliban fighters in Afghanistan that frees New York Times reporter Stephen Farrell. The journalist and his interpreter, who was killed in the raid, were kidnapped on Saturday. Britain offers to host an international conference on Afghanistan to set targets for transferring security responsibilities from foreign forces to Afghan authorities.

The only son of the late president Corazon Aquino announces he will run for president of the Philippines in next year’s election. Benigno Aquino III adapts his mother’s signature color of yellow when he reveals his candidacy.  Current president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is in her final term and cannot run again.

Three days after China’s government proclaims coal mine safety to be a priority, a gas explosion at an unlicensed mine in central China kills at least 35 workers and traps 44. Officials respond by arresting and suspending 13 officials and mine managers.

Japan’s new ruling Democratic Party finalizes a deal to form a coalition with two small parties whose help it needs to pass laws quickly. The Democratic Party of Japan needs the backing of the Social Democrats and the conservative People’s New Party to maintain control of the nation’s parliament. The coalition is set to launch next week.