It's only weird if you buy all the lame fench bashing here at FR (no I'm not fond of the French - they're self serving pompous, arrogant sob's).
But when it comes to their self interest and internal security, they're a hell of a lot tougher than we are.
I wouldn't say they are tougher, but I would say they are more ruthless. When France make a decision on a matter involving security or mational interest, they just don't care about agreements they've signed with other nations or what anyone else thinks. There's something to be said for that.
Meanwhile, the British are allowing a radical islamic cleric into their country. Go figure.