In a significant legal development, the attorneys representing Afghan brothers Mohammad Imran and Mohammad Sajad Kohistani appeared in a federal court in Salt Lake City on Thursday afternoon. This hearing marked the first step in addressing the brothers' unexpected detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a routine check-in, which took place earlier in the week. With their asylum cases pending, the legal team is working diligently to ensure that the jurisdiction remains in the District of Utah, where their initial hearings were held. On Tuesday, the Kohistani brothers were detained as they reported for their scheduled check-in with ICE, a process that is standard for individuals awaiting asylum decisions. The sudden detention raised concerns among the brothers’ advocates, who argue that the government lacks lawful authority to detain them at this stage of their legal proceedings. Marti Jones, one of the attorneys for the brothers, emphasized their belief that the government’s actions are unjustified. "We filed the petition for Habeas Corpus in this case because our belief in this case is that the government has no lawful authority at this point and time to re-detain these brothers," Jones stated. The court hearing focused on the question of jurisdiction, particularly in light of the recent developments that saw the Kohistanis moved to a facility in Wyoming, despite a prior judicial order mandating their detention in Utah. This relocation raised alarms among their legal representatives, who argued that moving the brothers out of state complicates their case and undermines their rights. During the proceedings, an agreement was reached with governmental representatives, allowing the brothers to be held at the Uinta County Jail in Evanston, Wyoming, while their petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus remains pending. The Kohistani brothers arrived at the U.S. border in 2023 seeking asylum, fleeing the turmoil and dangers they faced in Afghanistan. They have consistently maintained compliance with all legal procedures since their arrival, according to their attorneys. "They’ve been completely, for over three years, compliant. Their case is moving forward in immigration court; they had an individual hearing scheduled," Jones added. This statement reflects the brothers’ commitment to navigating the complex immigration system and underscores their ongoing struggle for safety and stability in the United States. Prior to their detention, the Kohistanis expressed their hopes and fears regarding their asylum applications. In a conversation with FOX 13 on February 2, they conveyed their anxiety about the possibility of detention, noting, "We have received this notice, like a month ago, and then just like, we were just like, trying to do something to, just like, not get detained, and then we have done a lot to just like, make the process easier. But it's not working." Their words paint a poignant picture of the emotional toll that the immigration process has taken on them. As the legal battle unfolds, the implications for the Kohistani brothers and others in similar situations are profound. The treatment of asylum seekers in the U.S. has been a contentious issue, with advocates arguing for more humane policies that respect the rights and dignity of individuals fleeing violence and persecution. The Kohistanis’ case highlights the precarious nature of asylum processes and the fears that many individuals face when navigating the immigration system. The next steps in this legal saga will be closely monitored, as the brothers and their attorneys prepare for future hearings. With their petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus pending, the outcome may set important precedents regarding the treatment of asylum seekers and the jurisdictional authority of immigration courts. As the situation develops, the community and advocates for immigrant rights are rallying in support of the Kohistani brothers, emphasizing the need for legal protections and humane treatment for those seeking refuge in the United States. The Kohistani brothers' story is a microcosm of the larger challenges faced by many asylum seekers today. As they navigate this uncertain terrain, their resilience and determination stand as a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity. With the support of their legal team and community advocates, they continue to fight for their right to remain in the U.S., seeking safety and a new beginning after fleeing the dangers of their homeland.