Get an elcheapo flight to Larnaca, Cyprus. From there you can catch BA direct to London for far lower surcharges with Avios. Only 17K Avios in Biz, I think 9-10K in economy. They operate a 767 with 34" pitch and relatively wide seats in business vs. 30" in economy.
Other choice is Israel - Madrid with Iberia, also low surcharges and low Avios. I believe 20K in business, with a real business class like El Al operates to Europe (perhaps ~45" pitch, footrests, generous recline).
AA would only be worthwhile for Israel to Hong Kong/Thailand, 40K miles for business. A complete waste to Europe.