Mideast tensions loom ahead of Biden meeting with Iraqi PM alWeather expected to worsen in NSW, QueenslandGovernment holds first carbon auction of the year after four failuresSix months into Gaza war, Israel faces deepening isolationUS Assessing Expansion of Chip Export Controls Impacting China's MilitaryMajor geomagnetic storm lights up parts of New ZealandNo sanctions on China over Hong Kong: PMUkraine lowers conscription age after drop in volunteers to fight Russian invasionHundreds of lizards seized in Australia police bustNew Year Honours: New Zealanders recognised for acting, saving lives, writing hymns and more