You are right in saying that Islam, as it is clear from the Qur'an (22: 40) does not sanction destruction of places of worship: The verse states:

"Those who have been driven from their homelands against all right for no other reason than their saying. "Our Sustainer is God!" For, if God had not enabled people to defend themselves against one another  {all] monasteries and churches and synagogues and mosques - in [all of] which Gods name is abundantly extolled - would surely have been destroyed [ere now]. And God will most certainly succour him who suc¬cours His cause: for, verily, God is most powerful, almighty." (Qur'an: 22: 40). It is reiterated in the verse:

"And thereupon, by God's leave, they routed them. And David slew Goliath; and God bestowed upon him dominion, and wisdom, and imparted to him the knowledge of whatever He willed. And if God had not enabled people to defend themselves against one another, corruption would surely overwhelm the earth: but God is limitless in His bounty unto all the worlds." (Qur'an: 2: 251).

The Prophet (peace be upon him) acted upon this principle, as he guaranteed freedom of worship to all the People of the Book and stipulated in the treaties that none of their places of worship shall be destroyed or damaged. It was for the same reason that the Caliph Umar refused to offer salah in the church In Jerusalem, even though the Patriarch of Jerusalem allowed him to offer his prayers inside; he  refused saying, 'I am afraid, if I did so, down the road some Muslims may turn the place into a mosque. Muslims under the later caliphs extended the freedom of worship and protection of religious sanctuaries to people of all religions, including Zoroastrians, Buddhists, and Hindus as well.