Not really. There was a real attack (provoked by the US) on Aug 2nd, and Johnson didn't want any evidence before escalating. Johnson even lied to Congress and the public about his plans before attacking. It's clear he would have used any excuse he could gin up.

Definitely, but it's also interesting that Jim Morrison's dad was the in charge of the ginned up operation. I don't think most people know that.

Johnson wanted to go to war, eventually some excuse would have been found.

I agree, this was less than a year after the JFK assassination and of high priority to Johnson and his "supporters".

Can you finish your point?

What is the takeaway?

That it was inevitable?