Thanks Jay but I have found it is possible to get to Cai through IST or AMM and as I do not mind visiting either on this trip that isn't my problem right now.
Now if someone can tell me how to find award flights JFK-Ber or DUS by Airberlin would be nice. Seems they have flights everyday but nothing shows up on AA.com or BA anywhere near my dates
Perhaps another possible destination before TLV? Any other suggestions?