US-Israeli conflict with Iran is on its fifth week (with no end in sight) and with the global economy held hostage due to the 'closure' of the Strait of Hormuz, US president Trump said that keeping the Strait open is not the US's problem.  In a reverse 'Pottery Barn rule' -- US breaks it but does not want to own it.  Even better it is what we call the 'Pampers rule' -- I make a mess, you clean up for me.  NZ-Cook Island signed a pact a year after Cook Island surprised NZ with a partnership with China.  Is this NZ exercising and imposing its power on its smaller partner?  Lastly, young Aussies are said to be dismayed with democracy.  Is this a blip or a trend?