Pakistan, Aug. 14 -- Two more ships were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz as the United States warned of increased pressure on Iran. The incidents further disrupted commercial shipping through the strategic waterway.

The vessels, owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, were attacked while transiting the strait on Thursday. The UAE blamed Iran, which did not immediately comment on the allegation.

Read more: Iran says Oman deal in 'final stages' but US must act to open Hormuz

Only nine vessels crossed the waterway on Thursday, according to shipping data. The figure remained below the August average of 12 and far below pre-war daily traffic.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US military could maintain its naval blockade of Ir...