[spitz]

The French would have quite happily handed their Navy over to the Nazi’s in North Africa. But, Adm Somerville arrived with Force H off the French Algerian base of Mers-el-Kebir and, after the French refused the options given them, opened fire on the anchored ships.

The French have never forgiven the British for that.

[altayann]

Strange that they would surrender to a nation that had conquered their country, but wouldn't to their allies.

The French naval commanders had no intention of surrending to anyone.