The Carmel-Yizre'el-Jordan fault system is a major structural feature in the geology of Israel. There is a great difference in topographical features, structural style, seismic activity, crustal structure, and other geological characteristics to the north and south of this fault system. We examine the gravity field of the region around the fault system by combining the techniques of upward continuation and horizontal gradient analysis. The results suggest the existence of a system of deep seated, N-S trending faults that are probably related to the continental breakup of the region in the Triassic-Jurassic. The present complex deformation of the area is the result of interaction between the older faults system and the younger stresses resulting from the formation of the Dead Sea rift. ¿ 1997 American Geophysical Union