96 Windstar's bizarre starting problem

To start this car we have to click up and down on the red seatbelt button. I have never heard of this before. Now, when you try to start the lights go on, the radio starts, everything seems fine, but the car does not turn over or start. It is like the battery is connected to the accessories, but not the motor.
Has anyone heard of starting a Windstar by simultaneously pressing the seatbelt release button and turning the key? Can I turn this annoying feature off? Suggestions?