Today is the deadline set by Islamofascist kidnappers holding two French hostages for France to repeal a law banning the wearing of conspicuous display of religious apparel in public schools. From a Fox News article:

The men's plight has been a shock to many in France, which opposed the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and has pursued generally pro-Arab policies.

"Because of France's distinguished position in rejecting the Anglo-American occupation of Iraq, we appeal to the people who kidnapped the journalists to spare their lives," said the Islamic Action Front, Jordan's largest opposition group.

I can see why this would come as a surprise to the blame America first crowd, but France should not be so surprised. It isn't like they weren't warned:

However, there were signs of anger when it was passed, including an ominous message for France six months ago from the top lieutenant of Usama bin Laden. An audiotape with a voice attributed to Ayman al-Zawahri, aired Feb. 24 on Al-Arabiya television, said the law on head scarves "is another example of the Crusader's malice which Westerners have against Muslims."

In typical French fashion, they refuse to see the light:

Iraqi interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi said the hostage crisis showed France cannot escape terrorists with a passive Iraq policy.

France will not be spared," Allawi said. "Governments that decide to remain on the defensive will be the next targets of terrorists."

The French Foreign Ministry called Allawi's comments "unacceptable."

Iraq was not really the issue, said Tertrais at the Foundation for Strategic Research.

While France stayed out of Iraq, it plays a leading role in fighting terrorist groups by sharing intelligence with other nations and it has hundreds of special forces soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

"Had France taken a different stance on Iraq, Islamists would have had two reasons to target France," Tertrais said.

update: as Glenn points out, the French would be well suited to take Allawi's advice, however "unacceptable" they find that advice.