From CNN, I'm a Falma Dikai, with the five things you need to know for Friday, August 16th.

As President, I will be laser focused on creating opportunities for the middle class that advance their economic

security, stability, and dignity.

Together we will build what I call an opportunity economy.

Vice President Kamla Harris gave her first major economic policy speech in North Carolina today, with a focus

on building up the middle class.

As president, I will take on the high costs that matter most to most Americans, like the cost of food.

Her measures are aimed at making housing, groceries, health care, and raising children

more affordable. The Democratic nominee said she would

pass the first federal ban on price gouging on food if she's elected.

She also said that lowering the cost of living will be a top priority,

highlighting the sharp price hikes families

have faced since before the pandemic.

Her plan also includes tax cuts for the middle class

and lower income Americans.

But her plans would require congressional approval

and she hasn't specified how she paid for her costly wish list. There is an urgent

push for Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire and hostage deal in Cairo next week, but both sides appear to be at odds over an agreement.

In May, President Joe Biden presented a three-phase ceasefire deal that would see Israeli hostages

released and include a plan to rebuild Gaza. Today,

mediators presented a proposal to bridge the gaps between both sides, but a

senior Hamas source says its leadership says the deal conforms to Israel's conditions.

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