"This is a civil war we have going on in Iraq," Reid said. "It's not right for us to be refereeing a civil war. It's very clear that's what it is. We never authorized fighting in a civil war."

Reid predicted that the Democrats would "continue to pick up Republicans" in their effort to stop a surge of U.S. combat troops in Iraq.

The majority leader said his party is finalizing its plans to accomplish its goal, but stressed that he would move forward only if Democrats stand shoulder-to-shoulder on strategy.