The Liberty was also very far from where the Americans had told the Israelis where it would be. Finding the ship there was unexpected and calls to confirm its identity were not being answered.
> IDF war room to Israeli pilot: Yes, follow orders.
> Israeli pilot to IDF war room: But sir, it’s an American ship - I can see the flag!
> IDF war room to Israeli pilot: Never mind; hit it.
https://archive.md/KNYBR/again?url=https://www.haaretz.com/u...