Nikon 18-55mm won't autofocus for stills, but focuses in video mode and makes noise

Because it focuses in video mode but not in normal still-photo mode, the problem may not be the lens alone. Many cameras use different autofocus systems for stills and video: stills often use phase-detect AF, while video/live view often uses contrast-detect AF from the imaging sensor. If video AF works but still-photo AF does not, the camera’s phase-detect AF system could be faulty or sending bad focus commands.

The unusual focusing noise and inability to focus at longer distances could also indicate a lens issue, so either the lens or camera body may need service.

Since the lens is only 2 months old, the best next step is warranty service through the seller, manufacturer, or an authorized repair center.

If you urgently need to shoot tomorrow, the practical short-term solution is to rent or borrow another lens (or have the camera checked at a local photo store) so you can isolate whether the fault is in the lens or camera body.